Fiat Chrysler Automobiles announced that it will use Samsung’s Harman platform and Google’s Android operating system to build a new global connected vehicle ecosystem.
The system will be powered by Android and will use the Harman Ignite cloud-based platform to deliver an enhanced user experience, while also securely managing in-vehicle data over a 4G network – with 5G support.
Users will also receive over-the-air software updates, maintenance predictions, as well as an assist with locating fuel and charging stations, restaurant offers and more, including live customer care assistance at the push of a button.
The system will also be able to interact with future smart cities’ infrastructure, as well as household devices using Samsung’s “Smart Things” platform. It will also support the FCA Mobility Services porfolio, which includes pay-by-the-mile options, usage-based vehicle insurance, short, medium and long-term vehicle rental and peer-to-peer car sharing solutions.
Key components of the system will be rolled out across global regions during the second half of this year, while all new FCA vehicles will be connected by 2022.
“By selecting industry leaders such as Samsung and Google, we are making an efficient and responsible utilization of capital to provide advanced technological solutions to our customers worldwide,” stated FCA CTO, Harald Wester. “In collaboration with HARMAN – Samsung and Google, we have developed a flexible, easy-to-use and connected ‘ecosystem’ that not only deploys today’s technology, but is also ready to integrate upcoming innovations.”
Unlike rivals GM and Ford, FCA has spent very little on developing self-driving tech, and instead have become reliant on outside parties to provide them with the necessary systems.