Ford and Google are reportedly in talks to build the next generation of self-driving cars. Although details are scarce at this point, a Google insider has said the two companies have been ironing out the details on this joint-venture “for a long time,” according to Automotive News.
It has been speculated that an announcement will be made at the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas in January. While a Google spokesperson said the company would not comment on speculation, other company personnel have confirmed that Google has been speaking to car manufacturers.
The news was also reported in Yahoo Autos, who cited three unnamed sources as saying the deal will create a joint corporate entity that will be separate from Ford. Sources also said the agreement will be non-exclusive, allowing Google to pursue partnerships with other vehicle manufacturers.
Ford also declined comment on the matter, stating that it keeps discussions confidential for competitive reasons. Feeding speculation is the fact that two key Ford personnel have joined Google – former Ford CEO Alan Mulally joined Google’s board of directors eight days after he retired from Ford in July, and 14-year veteran John Krafcik was hired as CEO of Google’s Self-Driving Car project in September.
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