Jaguar Land Rover to collaborate with Intel on new digital systems
VEHICLE manufacturer Jaguar Land Rover has announced it is to collaborate with technology giant Intel to supply the next generation of so-called ‘infotainment’ systems for its cars and 4x4s.
The partnership will be underpinned by the opening of a new technology R&D centre in Portland, Oregon. The centre will be open next year and will employ 30 people including 16 software engineers.
Facilities will include a multimedia creative suite, innovation spaces, development laboratory and a six-bay vehicle workshop.
The facility will be JLR’s first dedicated software R&D operation and will lead the optimisation for automotive applications of a range of new advanced technologies that are currently being developed on the West Coast of the United States.
The work carried out will see JLR stretch the boundaries of its new connectivity strategies, which aim to support the increasingly important digitally-connected lifestyle of its target customers.
The location of the centre has been chosen for its proximity to the technology industry hubs in Silicon Valley and Seattle, where JLR has been developing collaborative partnerships with the world’s leading IT businesses and creative and technical talent.
JLR and Intel have already begun work on multiple levels across engineering, research and marketing as the car company progresses its ambitions to deliver the best in-car infotainment systems on the market.
The close proximity of JLR’s new research facility to Intel Labs is enabling a collaborative relationship on research projects. It said multiple programmes were under way to explore and develop next-generation digital vehicle prototypes with in-vehicle systems connecting the car to various devices and the cloud.
Dr Wolfgang Ziebart, JLR Engineering Director, said: “Our aim is to innovate and develop the ultimate user experience for our customers and by taking a collaborative approach with both technology start-ups and large organisations such as Intel, we will push the boundaries of future infotainment technology.
“Working with Intel will help both partners define and develop platforms and systems appropriate for premium global brands like Jaguar and Land Rover. This will ultimately develop unique and innovative technologies that will continue to drive the appeal of our products. Our research and the partnerships we are developing in the US will help us ensure our new products remain innovative and globally competitive.”
Elliot Garbus, vice president and general manager, Automotive Solutions Division, Intel Corporation, said consumers expected their in-vehicle experiences to be an integrated part of their digitally-connected lifestyle.
“This requires enhanced levels of connectivity and intelligence in the car. As part of our work with Jaguar Land Rover, we are exploring innovative ways to inform, entertain and assist drivers and passengers in a safe way; speeding development of unique experiences from the car to the cloud. Our goal is to accelerate opportunities for new types of in-vehicle services and applications in the Internet of Things,” he said.
