It seems the auto industry is looking to break into the big data and cloud computing scene.
Ford Motors recently made a substantial investment in the cloud computing scene by shelling out $182.2 million to acquire Silicon Valley based cloud company Pivotal.
Ford’s interest in this partnership is in hopes to offer their customers better technology and to help their customer service improve. This investment is part of a software development collaboration process. Additionally, this partnership will seek to improve Ford’s smartphone app, FordPass—which controls remote access, car-share options and parking assist.
According to Ford CEO and President, Mark Fields, “Expanding our business to be both an auto and mobility company requires leading-edge software expertise to deliver outstanding customer experiences. Our investment in Pivotal will help strengthen our ability to deliver these customer experiences at the speed of Silicon Valley.”
These advancements, Ford hopes, will work to help make them competitive with companies like Tesla Motors in terms of innovative technology.
A cloud computing company partnering with auto makers isn’t a new concept. Last year, Pivotal worked to help Mercedes-Benz build an app to boost the driver experience of a Benz.