Renault and Google expand partnership to make cars 'more intelligent'

Renault and Google want to follow a vision of turning cars into highly intelligent hardware like mobile phones. 

The latest announcement expands the partnership that commenced in 2018 between the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance and Google to equip alliances' cars with Google's infotainment system. Now, the aim is to upgrade the Over-the-Air (OTA) remote software ability and offer on-demand services for customers. 

By boosting its "end-to-end digital transformation" with Google, Renault plans to create additional revenue while increasing the residual value of Renault cars to retain customers. 

The transformation will involve developing a software-defined vehicle (SDV) using Google's Android Automotive infotainment system. To do this, both companies will work on "Digital Twin", or a virtual version of Renault cars. Through advanced artificial intelligence (AI), Renault wants to add new capabilities to their vehicles, including on-demand services such as finding a car in a large parking lot. 

While the in-Car services will adapt to drivers' driving behaviours, combining the SDV platform with its Car Data Platform, Renault Group will better analyse customers' needs and behaviours.

'Horizontal strategy'

Taking note of Volkswagen's problems at its Cariad software unit and wanting to be ahead of rivals trying to close the software gap with Tesla, Renault follows a horizontal strategy in digital development. 

In this regard, OTA plays a crucial role in the path of SDVs. 

Image: Renault