Amazon and Stellantis have been developing a software package designed for inclusion in Stellantis’ cars since 2022. However, a recent Reuters article implies this alliance won’t go on. By splitting ways, the two firms will let each team focus on solutions that benefit their shared clients and better match their changing objectives.
Emphasizing that “Stellantis remains a valuable partner for Amazon, and the companies continue to work together on a range of initiatives,” the two companies said in a joint statement. The choice to drop the software project, known as SmartCockpit, seems to have been a shared decision. The idea was to create a more sophisticated kind of in-car entertainment that would improve the vehicle’s capacity for external technology interaction. The program, for example, was intended to identify a driver and offer customized settings, including the display of navigation directions to their office or the adjustment of the climate control.
Read our special insider’s news on Toyota’s private project on Compact Pickup Truck targeting America’s small truck market.
Additionally, more complex capabilities, likely using Amazon’s experience in smart home technology, were also intended. A 2022 press release emphasized capabilities, including home arrival lighting activation. The company looked to Amazon for software expertise as Stellantis’s car lineup started to exhibit signs of ageing, especially in regard to in-car technology and infotainment systems.
Stellantis’ previous CEO, Carlos Tavares, expressed his desire at that point that the collaboration with Amazon would make them the most sought-after, most enthralling place to be, even when not driving. Reuters, however, notes that the reasons behind the partnership’s failure remain unclear. New automotive technology is notoriously expensive, hence, Stellantis might have only sought to lower expenses. For car manufacturers, especially, the cost of software development is high as it has to flawlessly fit many current car settings.
Initially planned to debut in 2024 or 2025 with Stellantis somewhat funding the costs, SmartCockpit was expected to give Amazon for software in every vehicle, plus other related expenses in return for use of the company’s technology.