German automakers Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, along with technology company Bosch, have formed an alliance to develop automotive software. The goal is to reduce reliance on American systems like Android Auto and Google Automotive, and to regain control of software development.
The alliance also includes component manufacturers Continental, ZF Friedrichshafen, and Valeo, as well as software companies ETAS, Qorix, and Vector. The collaboration aims to lower development costs and accelerate innovation through a shared, open-source software architecture applicable to multiple car brands.
Bosch is investing over 2.5 billion euros in AI by 2027, focusing on autonomous driving and industrial efficiency. The alliance is open to non-German automakers, with negotiations underway with French manufacturers.