Ford Chooses Google as Connected Car Partner

Paul Myles

TU-Editor

2nd February 2021

Ford is to let Google handle its V2X data seemingly ending the debate over whether automakers will ring-fence their product and consumer generated information.

The automaker has agreed to enter a strategic partnership with the digital giant hoping to enhance its connected vehicle experience offerings. It has also named Google Cloud its preferred cloud provider to deploy Google’s expertise in data, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML). During this six-year partnership, beginning in 2023, all future Ford and Lincoln brand vehicles, at all price points, will be powered by Android, with Google apps and services built-in.

The partnership creates a new collaborative group, Team Upshift hoping to harness the best talents and assets of both companies. This may include projects ranging from developing new retail experiences when buying a vehicle, creating new ownership offers based on data, and more.

With Google Cloud, Ford plans to:

Improve customer experiences with differentiated technology and personalized services;
Accelerate product development, manufacturing and supply chain management, including exploration of using vision AI for manufacturing employee training and reliable plant equipment performance;
Fast track the implementation of data-driven business models with customers receiving real-time notices such as maintenance requests or trade-in alerts.

Jim Farley, president and CEO of Ford, said: “As Ford continues the most profound transformation in our history with electrification, connectivity and self-driving, Google and Ford coming together establishes an innovation powerhouse truly able to deliver a superior experience for our customers and modernize our business.”

— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in London. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_

Connectivity