Cariad, Volkswagen Group’s automotive software and technology division, has announced a strategic partnership with ThunderSoft, a provider of intelligent operating system products and technologies. As part of the partnership, Cariad and ThunderSoft plan to establish a joint venture in China, with Cariad holding a 49% stake and ThunderSoft retaining a 51% stake.

The partnership will enable Cariad to offer localized applications for entertainment, user experience, and interactions (UX/UI) for Volkswagen vehicles, says Volkswagen. The collaboration will draw on Cariad’s vehicle software and hardware integration expertise, Volkswagen Group’s platform synergies, and ThunderSoft’s experience in operating systems and smart cockpits. The companies will work together to develop and test software products and solutions in areas such as connectivity, infotainment, operating systems, human-machine interfaces, cockpits, and cloud development.

China’s intelligent connected vehicle (ICV) market is experiencing rapid growth, with consumers demanding innovative and cutting-edge driving experiences, according to Volkswagen. As part of Cariad’s “in China, for China” strategy, the company is teaming up with technology firms to enhance its research and development capabilities, focusing on delivering localized innovations with a customer-oriented approach.

[Image courtesy: Volkswagen]