Google and Renault Group have expanded their partnership to work on a “software defined vehicle (SDV)”.

Google and Renault have worked together on cloud computing projects since 2018.

The collaboration will design and deliver the digital architecture for the SDV and speed up Renault’s digitalisation, the companies announced. Google and Renault will develop a set of onboard and offboard software components for the SDV.

The partnership will create a “digital twin,” which is a virtual twin of the vehicle featuring advanced AI capabilities. Renault claimed this will allow an easier and continuous integration of new services into the vehicle to create onboard and offboard applications.

Renault added it will eventually move its entire operational model to the cloud to allow for “more agility, better performance and higher profitability”.

Renault boss Luca de Meo said that the complexity of the electronic architecture of cars is “increasing exponentially”, attributing this to customer demand for sophisticated functions and services.

“Equipped with a shared IT platform, continuous over-the-air updates, and streamlined access to car data, the SDV approach developed in partnership with Google will transform our vehicles to help serve future customers' needs,” said the chief executive.

He added that the strategic partnership will allow the car manufacturer to speed up its end-to-end digital transformation, from “the design of the car to its market launch through its production”.

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