This is a time of fast and in-depth change in the automotive industry, driven by developments in connected services, autonomous driving and new transport practices. Renault has been very quick on the uptake and, through the Renault-Nissan Alliance, is at the forefront of innovation and technological advancement, to offer customers the very best in the latest technologies. To continue this pursuit, it is bringing in the best available talent.
Today’s announcement of Groupe Renault’s project to acquire Intel’s French R&D teams will extend the Groupe's engineering skills by integrating teams specialized in embedded software, connectivity and new customer experiences. They’ll bring to Groupe Renault prime expertise, in-depth experience, advanced working methods, and their established networks of suppliers, laboratories and partner companies.
Some teams already hold automotive-specific skills, in multimedia and connectivity for example.
With this acquisition, Groupe Renault gains access to the full spectrum of skills needed for stepping up development of the new generation of vehicle-embedded software. This opens valuable perspectives in areas such as personalized services and remote, autonomous, realtime updates with no outside intervention.
There’s no doubt about it: the cars of the future will be electric, connected and autonomous. This means that the electronic and software content of each vehicle is absolutely essential. Indeed, the cost of the electronic parts and software in the average vehicle is constantly rising: from 35% in 2015 to anything up to 50% by 2020 according to some sources.
Embedded software and artificial intelligence are key factors, enabling automakers to offer customers innovative solutions and a driving experience that becomes smoother, simpler, safer and more enjoyable, thanks to advanced driver aids, satnav, multimedia, etc.
The connected vehicle is already a reality in the Renault range, making road journeys safer, more enjoyable and less tiring. As vehicle connection capabilities broaden in scope and become more widespread, they will give rise to a degree of automation, eventually culminating in the autonomous car.
By 2020, Renault will offer a single-lane control ADAS (advanced driver assistance system) usable on motorways under all traffic conditions. Drivers will still need to keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel, and they’ll remain fully responsible for driving phases.
Then after 2020, the system will gradually evolve toward eyes off / hands off mode, applicable under certain conditions (congested traffic, low speed limits) and specific types of roads, such as motorways and dual carriageways.