Announcement made at Google I/O in San Francisco
Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd (M&M Ltd), part of the US $ 16.9 billion Mahindra Group, announced that it had become a member of the Open Automotive Alliance (OAA), a global alliance of vehicle manufacturers, with leading edge technology, committed to bringing the Android platform to cars. The announcement was made at Google I/O, Google’s developer conference in San Francisco, recently.
In the Indian automotive space, Mahindra has always been a pioneer in automotive electronics, with many innovative and industry-first technologies to its credit. Under the aegis of this association with Google and the OAA, Mahindra is getting ready to provide its customers with the next level of connectivity through Android Auto.
Android Auto extends the Android platform into the car in a way that is purpose-built for driving. It offers next generation solution in connectivity by linking smart phones and tablets with an in-vehicle infotainment system. In fact it is designed for safer and easier access to information that the driver may require while driving. For example, eyes-free technology like voice and spoken directions combined with integrated controls (like steering wheel buttons) to reduce driver intervention significantly. With simple, intuitive interfaces and voice actions, Android Auto is expected to enhance the driving experience by being connected always, while also improving comfort and safety.
Speaking on the announcement, Pravin Shah, President and Chief Executive (Automotive), Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “We are happy to be part of the OAA and being the first Indian OEM to be part of this prestigious global alliance, it is indeed a moment we are proud of. At Mahindra we have always been committed to introducing newer technological offerings in our vehicles in an endeavour to create an enriched user experience and provide better value technologies to our customers. Going forward, after successful integration, we will be offering Android Auto in our flagship models of XUV 500 and the Scorpio as well as on our future platforms. I am confident that this will help us in taking a quantum leap in offering connectivity solutions to our customers”.
Mahindra currently offers the BLUE SENSE® APP which enables customers to connect with the vehicle using Bluetooth technology. Going forward, on integration of Android Auto, the owners of Mahindra vehicles will have in-car access to Google Maps and other specially adapted Google Services and third party apps via an infotainment screen through simplified interactions, thereby being connected always for a pleasurable driving experience.
