It’s easy to forget, but design trends aren’t universal, and different areas of the world have different expectations when it comes to their technology. To ensure that its vehicles match up with the desires of its Chinese customers, Polestar will partner with a local tech company.
The Swedish automaker announced today that its subsidiary will embark on a joint venture enterprise with Xingji Meizu Group. Polestar will lean on the tech company’s expertise in consumer electronics hardware development to localize its vehicles’ infotainment systems.
“[China is] a market with very specific consumer trends, including increasing levels of integration between consumer electronics devices and vehicles,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar’s CEO. “By partnering with a company that has a strong complementary competence to our own, we will be able to offer the locally tailored user experience that both drivers and passengers expect.”
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Through the joint venture, Xingji Meizu will work its existing platform, Flyme Auto, into the operating systems of Polestar vehicles sold in China. With that, the tech company will have its hands on in-car apps, streaming services, and intelligent vehicle software.
In addition, Flyme Auto will be complemented by mobile and augmented reality devices and customer apps. These will combine to create a seamless digital ecosystem for the vehicles that live up to the expectations of Chinese customers.
Polestar will transfer roughly 130 of its commercial staff in China to the new joint venture, which is set to become its sole authorized sales and service entity in the country. The automaker will own 49 percent of the company, while Xingji Meizu will own 51 percent.
“The future of our industry will be enabled by integrated devices and platforms that deliver an immersive experience for end users,” said Ziyu Shen, chairman of Xingji Meizu. “With the support of the progressive technology of Xingji Meizu, Polestar will take the lead in the field of smart mobility. By working closely together, we will create even better products and offer users a seamless experience across a multitude of devices.”
