It is no secret that automakers and technology companies are combining their know-how to rapidly develop autonomous driving systems. However, we’ve only just discovered how long Intel and Google have been working together on autonomous technology.
Car and Driver recently learnt that the two companies have been collaborating on the technology for self-driving cars for the past eight years. It’s therefore little surprise why Waymo, Google’s self-driving division, is years ahead of its rivals.
As we speak, the largest fleet of autonomous vehicles anywhere are currently testing in Phoenix, Arizona and they come in the form of 600 Chrysler Pacificas with Waymo and Intel tech. This is just the start, says Waymo chief executive John Krafcik.
“As Waymo’s self-driving technology becomes smarter and more capable, its high-performance hardware and software will require even more powerful and efficient compute. By working closely with Waymo, Intel can offer Waymo’s fleet of vehicles the advanced processing power required for Level 4 and 5 autonomy.”
For many years, it was thought that Google was creating autonomous tech by itself but the long-standing partnership with Intel exemplifies how far ahead of the curve Google has been.
In more recent times, Intel has stepped up its efforts to further develop autonomous technologies, announcing a huge partnership with BMW, Mobileye, Delphi and FCA. Earlier this year, it even purchased Mobileye for $15 billion.
“Given the pace at which autonomous driving is coming to life, I fully expect my children’s children will never have to drive a car,” said Intel chief executive Brian Krzanich. “That’s an astounding thought. Something almost 90 percent of Americans do every day will end within a generation.”
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