Magna International is racing to meet rising demand from automakers for connectivity and autonomous driving solutions. Magna Chief Technology Officer Swamy Kotagiri said that collaboration will be a key to success and he doesn't consider Google and Apple to be friends or foes to suppliers. He explained why in a recent interview with Automotive News Europe Correspondent David Jolley.
How important are partnerships for connected-car development?
I believe they are necessary. It is a more and more collaborative approach. Not just between automakers and Tier 1 suppliers or between automakers. For example, you really cannot develop a semiconductor chip at a car company.
Are Google and Apple friends or enemies to suppliers?
I personally don't see that as a friend or enemy question. There will always be new entrants in the market. Fifteen years ago there was no Tesla. Therefore, it is not so much about product, but changing the revenue model and what data can do.
Will we be driven around by autonomous vehicles as soon as some leading automakers say?
If the definition of autonomous is that you are in the driver's seat ready to take control if the system expects you to, then yes. If you are talking about truly autonomous where you are in the back seat or you don't have to be in the [driver's] seat, then no.