Amazon's In-Car Technology Deal With Stellantis Is Dead
The SmartCockpit software was supposed to launch last year.
In early 2022, Stellantis announced that it would work with Amazon to develop new software for the automaker's vehicles. That included technology for the cabin and infotainment experience. It was called SmartCockpit, and it was supposed to arrive in vehicles starting in 2024. However, that deadline came and went without the software, and now we know why—Amazon and Stellantis are ending their SmartCockpit collaboration.
Both companies confirmed to Reuters that they were "winding down" SmartCockpit development. Neither company told the publication the reason for the mutual decision; however, they said in a statement that this would allow the companies to "focus on solutions that provide value to our shared customers and better align with our evolving strategies."
In 2022, Stellantis said that SmartCockpit would run in millions of Stellantis vehicles globally beginning last year. It was supposed to "integrate with customers' digital lives" and create a personalized experience with AI-enhanced apps, Alexa-enabled voice controls, and other tech-centric features. Stellantis claimed that SmartCockpit would adapt to a driver's behaviors and interests, as well as work with other Amazon services.
The SmartCockpit project is just one example of automakers reaching out to tech companies for help in developing software, as some of them have struggled. Volkswagen has had serious issues with software that delayed several projects.
Amazon is just one company fighting to control your vehicle's screens. Google Built-In (not to be confused with Android Auto) is already in many vehicles, including those of General Motors, Ford, Honda, Volvo, and others. Apple wants to solidify its dominance with its CarPlay Ultra, which takes over every screen in a car. It recently launched on Aston Martins.
Infotainment Showdown:
Source: Reuters
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU
Hyundai Want Its Electric N Cars To Feel ‘More Realistic’
Woman Tries To Return Her Brand-New Audi. Then They Give Her A Repurchase Agreement: 'I Am Gonna Lose Several Thousand Dollars'
This Startling Statistic Is Why Seatbelt Reminders Have Gotten So Annoying
Most American-Made Cars Aren't Actually From American Brands
Mazda Says Big Screens Aren't More Distracting Than Buttons
Man Goes To Toyota Dealership For 4Runner. Then He Calls His Insurance Company To See What His Rate Would Be: 'Don’t Do That'
The IIHS Tells Us Which Driver Aids Actually Work—And Which Don't