Google is in talks with Ford to make a commercialized version of their self-driving system. Sources have reported that both companies are in talks to form a new company. This would protect Ford from any liabilities during development.
The Giant has been in Talks With Many Car Makers, But it Looks like Ford is the One
No Google or Ford representatives have confirmed the collaboration, and there’s no clarification on when exactly this new company will be formed. There’s also no blueprint in regards to when or even if the vehicles made from the collaboration will be on sale.
The Partnership is Still Really Secretive
The company has been testing their self-driving system on public American roads. They’ve been using converted Lexus SUVs as well as cars from Roush Industries. These test projects are directed by John Krafcik. Former CEO of Hyundai USA, Krafcik is joined by previous Ford CEO Alan Mulally, who is on Google’s board of directors.
Ford Collaboration May Not Be Exclusive
People close to Ford revealed that the deal with Google is not an exclusive one and that Ford is open to Google forming other collaborations with other car makers. Ford just recently opened up a lab in Silicon Valley back in January. They’re planning to test their own self-driving car in California in 2016. Ford is expecting to have a commercialized self-driving car by 2020.
Will This Collaboration Bring a New Ford Car?
This collaboration could make a new Ford-Google car, but it could also take an existing Ford model and remake it with a Google made self-driving system. A partnership like this could be greatly beneficial to both parties. Ford could use a serious boost in sales, and Google can bring them that.
The company has expressed most of their interest in collective transport for all people, but it looks like they want to go commercial. It is about time, as word recently got out that the Apple Car is most likely in development. This new car could be out by 2019, and it will certainly be a commercial car for sale to the public. There are a lot of people out there who would seek out and buy a Google car regardless of the price. The company has many loyal followers like that.
Google’s Self-Driving System Goes Commercial
A commercial car by Google will bring very interesting competition to the table. Already dabbling in virtually every relevant industry, Google has not found a pool where it isn’t comfortable. With Google’s intentions in mind, they could be bringing affordable self-driving vehicles to third world countries and developed ones alike. They could be optimizing transportation instead of looking to make it more luxurious. Ford has many subsidiaries, and they make many different cars fit for different target groups.
Either way, it is an exciting time for Silicon Valley. Clean energy is becoming trendier with time, and it’s slowly taking over all technology industries. Going green is a statement that is putting a lot of pressure on many different industries. Hopefully, it catches on and makes necessary changes to industries that take advantage of gas emissions.
Is Volvo the Secret to This Partnership?
In an ideal situation, even Volvo should be considered to partner up with Google. With their gas emissions scandal this year, Volvo has very low credibility right now. They will greatly benefit from collaborating with a giant like Google to get back the faith of their clients, investors and customers. Also owned by Ford, Volvo could be the answer to all the mystery surrounding this partnership. It has been a low year for Ford in general, and they could certainly use a boost courtesy of the most profitable company in the world right now.
