Ford partners with Baidu on smart vehicle project in China

Ford Motor Co, the American automotive manufacturer, has signed a latter of intend with Baidu, the Chinese internet search firm.

The two companies will develop smarter vehicles by incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) and smart connectivity, Reuters reported.

Ford will work on new in-vehicle infotainment systems, which will be supported by the voice-interaction system, DuerOS.

The system, based on digital services, will be offered to owners of Ford vehicles in China.

SEE ALSO:

• Ford to invest $11bn in electric vehicle development

• Ford Australia recalls 43,000 Focus models due to fire risk

• Autocar and Ford celebrate women in the automotive industry

• Read the latest issue of Manufacturing Global here

Through the system, drivers will be able to communicate with their vehicle, commanding it using natural language.

“As part of our ‘In China, For China’ strategy, we look forward to working closely to offer smart products and solutions that can make people’s lives easier and more enjoyable,” said Peter Fleet, Ford’s President of Asia Pacific, Reuters claimed.

“Collaborating with leading technology companies such as Baidu support our vision to become the world’s most trusted mobility company by leveraging new opportunities to build a sustainable mobility ecosystem,” Fleet added, according to CNBC.

Ford and Baidu have also confirmed plans to launch a connectivity lab to be used for innovation research, such as cloud computing.

The value of the deal has not yet been revealed.