Scalper1 News
Alphabet ’s ( GOOGL ) Google and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles ( FCAU ) are moving closer to a non-exclusive pact to develop self-driving cars, says a Bloomberg report. Google and Fiat Chrysler initially plan to develop self-driving prototypes based on the carmaker’s Pacifica minivan, the report said. Speculation over a Google-Fiat Chrysler deal had surfaced late last month. Google and Fiat Chrysler would both be free to cooperate in driverless technology with other partners despite their pending pact. Google had earlier been in negotiations with General Motors ( GM ), but those talks reportedly stalled. GM has invested in Lyft as part of an alliance that involves autonomous efforts with the ride-hailing service. Other companies in the autonomous car race include Tesla Motors ( TSLA ), Apple ( AAPL ), Toyota ( TM ) and Ford ( F ). Apple has yet to confirm any car plans, though its intentions are seen as an open secret. In April, the company hired Chris Porritt, who had been Tesla’s vice president of vehicle engineering. He will work on Titan, Apple’s car project, say reports. A German newspaper last month said a potential Apple partner is Magna Steyr, the world’s largest contract automaker. Scalper1 News
Scalper1 News