French automaker Renault is partnering with Google to develop its cars like a tech company makes software. The companies have released details of an expanded partnership designed to deliver the digital architecture for a new Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) platform and accelerate the group’s digitalisation.
Using artificial intelligence, the two companies plan to create a “digital twin” of a new vehicle. Digital twins aim to replicate physical objects in a virtual setting so that they can be tested and monitored before real-world deployment.
The companies said the deal will help Renault develop new onboard and offboard applications. Renault will use data analytics to detect and resolve failures in how the vehicle functions and personalise users’ experience to adapt to often-used destinations, such as electric vehicle charging stations.
Renault first partnered with Google in 2018 to integrate the tech giant’s Android operating system into in-car media displays. The firm plans to eventually move its operational model to the cloud.
On Tuesday, Google CEO Sundar Pichai commented on the partnership Tuesday that it would “help accelerate Renault Group’s digital transformation by bringing together our expertise in the cloud, AI, and Android to provide a secure, highly-personalized experience that meets customers’ evolving expectations.”