Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOGL) partnerships with German automobile manufacturers seems to have caused AUDI AG VORMALS AUDI (OTCMKTS:AUDVF) to raise eyebrows over passenger privacy concerns.
Audi claims that internet-assisted driving could open doors for the violation of passenger privacy. Audi’s Chief Executive Officer, Rupert Stadler stated that cookies and other data gathering utilities are like a common courtesy for the German Automotive industry. He compared a car with a living room and thus the need for privacy measures.
Major automakers such as General Motors Company (NYSE:GM) and Toyota Motor Corp (ADR) (NYSE:TM) have been placing heavy focus ad resources towards the shifting trend towards software. The shift is the current competitive trend for the latest vehicles in the highly competitive automobile industry. Mr. Stadler pointed out one of the negatives that come with such a shit.
The comments by Audi’s CEO might be pointing towards the need for domestic software platforms to partner up with the German automakers for software-assisted driving. Such platforms would be important to rival Google’s monopoly in the market while at the same time offering new ideas and more restrictions on data access.
Stadler delivered his speech during an executives meeting in Berlin. Google’s Chairman, Eric Schmidt also spoke at the same meeting. He stated that his company has been working with partners and has been focusing on the whole infrastructure. He also added that it was in Google’s interest that German automotive manufacturers realize their potential in the European automotive projects.
Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOGL) has been in partnerships with Audi for roughly one year. Stadler stated that Audi envisions digitalization of the electronics systems being as important as power output. Manufacturing companies continue to embrace software assisted functions due to the simplicity and the level of technology that is currently available. The shit has also been pushed by customer preferences. Modern technology makes customers feel pride and in control. There is no better way to make sure vehicles satisfy their owners than bringing more digital power on board.
