The Volkswagen Group and LG Electronics have signed a memorandum of understanding on joint research and development of a next-generation connected car service platform.

The two companies will work together on Volkswagen’s ‘cross-over-platform’, which is aimed at enhanced vehicle connectivity and convenience.

Using cloud technology, it will offer drivers digital access to features such as smart home and location-based services.

Over the coming years, the two companies will be concentrating on:

Developing technologies that bring together the connected car and the smart home so drivers are able to control and monitor smart devices in their homes — such as lights, security systems and domestic appliances — from out on the road.
Developing a context-sensitive notification centre that can deliver messages in an “intuitive and safe manner” and provide optimised recommendations to the driver in real time.
Developing next-generation infotainment technology for connected cars.

"Volkswagen is pressing on with the digitalisation of its brands.

“Our focus in doing so is always on our customers.

“For them, comfort, safety and energy efficiency play a central role.

LG is a strong, reliable partner in the implementation of new features and one of the drivers of innovation in the networked household," said Prof. Thomas Form, head of electronics and vehicle research at the official signing of the agreement.

This agreement is an example of the long-standing relationship that LG and Volkswagen have developed over the years.

LG has been supplying audio-visual products for vehicles since 2007.

In March in 2015, Volkswagen subsidiary Italdesign Guigiaro unveiled its GEA concept car at the Geneva Motor Show with seven components supplied by LG Electronics, including the holographic display, connected smart watch, tail lights and rear camera. 

Video:  The Italdesign Guigiaro GEA concept car at the Geneva Motor Show