Fiat Ups Tech Game With Google, Samsung Deals
» Posted May 27, 2019 • Resources | Share This Post
A technological arms race is heating up in the automobile industry, as carmakers look to automation and connectivity to make getting from Point A to Point B a safer and more enjoyable experience. Fiat Chrysler’s new partnership with Google and Samsung is a prime example.
The car manufacturer is teaming up with the tech giants to build a “global connected ecosystem” for Fiat Chrysler vehicles, the company recently announced. Fiat Chrysler plans to have all new cars connected through the ecosystem by 2022.
“The modern, in-vehicle experience must be designed for seamless connectivity and digital content, and provide an integrated, but familiar experience for the on-the-go consumer,” Google Vice President of Engineering Patrick Brady said in a joint statement announcing the deal. “We are excited FCA will power its infotainment system with Android, providing its drivers with a reliable and rich environment ripe for app and content development.”
Fiat Chrysler is partnering with Google to use the Android platform to provide on-board connectivity through an app-based system. It will use Samsung’s HARMAN platform for off-board services, like live customer-care assistance, and traffic and maintenance information.
The new technology is also expected to enhance Fiat Chrysler’s fleet of electric vehicles. That includes by offering a trip navigator system and battery management assistance designed to help drivers maximize their juice.
“By selecting industry leaders such as Samsung and Google, we are making an efficient and responsible utilization of capital to provide advanced technological solutions to our customers worldwide,” Fiat Chrysler Chief Technology Officer Harald Wester said in the announcement.
Emissions Accusations Still Looming
Fiat Chrysler may be getting serious about technology, but it still has some explaining to do to many of its investors and customers.
The company recently agreed to pay $110 million to settle an investor class action lawsuit over emissions cheating allegations. Earlier this year, Fiat Chrysler also agreed to fork over another $800 million in fines related to similar accusations that the company rigged on-board software to give false emissions readings.
The company in March said it was recalling some 860,000 that don’t currently comply with federal emissions regulations.
How the California Lemon Law Protects Buyers, Lessors in the Golden State
Whether its emissions issues or manufacturing defects, car buyers and lessors don’t always get the full picture about the vehicles they’re driving off of the dealership lot. Fortunately, California law includes some protections for people who get stuck with a “lemon.”
The California lemon law requires a carmaker to perform various repairs on malfunctioning vehicles while they’re under warranty. If those repairs don’t fix the problem, the manufacturer is responsible for taking the car back and compensating the owner/lessor for the purchase price and other related costs. In some cases, the manufacturer may instead offer a replacement vehicle.
The California Lemon Law attorneys at the Bickel Law Firm have decades of combined experience, representing hundreds of clients in defective vehicle cases across the state. Our offices are conveniently located in Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco. Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with an attorney.
