Renault is deepening its collaboration with Google in a bid to extend capabilities on remote software updates to new models such as the electric Megane E-Tech and Austral.
“We want to make the car an intelligent object that learns and one that can be upgraded over the air like a mobile phone,” Renault CEO Luca de Meo said in an interview.
Automakers are scrambling to catch up with Tesla’s tech capabilities, including the ability to deliver updates to cars remotely.
Expanding the partnership with Google, which started in 2018, will allow Renault to offer more over-the-air software updates as well as additional on-demand services, the two companies said Tuesday.
The partnership with Google will also help Renault accelerate its “end-to-end digital transformation, from the design of the car to its market launch through its production,” de Meo said in a statement.
The new in-vehicle digital features will create additional revenue while bolstering the residual value of Renault cars and retain customers, de Meo added.
