Stellantis and Microsoft have announced a strategic partnership lasting five years to collaborate on artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and engineering capabilities. This partnership is crucial for Stellantis as it competes with technology-driven rivals in the automotive industry.
The use of software and data-driven services has become a key component of long-term strategies for automotive companies, particularly as Chinese automakers enhance their offerings to attract customers both locally and internationally. Traditional automakers, facing challenges in developing software and technology independently, are increasingly seeking partnerships with tech companies to accelerate their capabilities.
Stellantis’ Chief Engineering and Technology Officer, Ned Curic, emphasized the acceleration of AI initiatives across the enterprise through the collaboration with Microsoft. While no financial details of the partnership were disclosed, the focus will be on co-developing over 100 AI initiatives, including product development, predictive maintenance, and the rapid deployment of digital features and services.
The collaboration will also involve strengthening Stellantis’ global cyber defense center using AI-driven analytics to enhance cybersecurity measures and safeguard vehicles, customer data, and operations worldwide. This initiative will encompass IT systems, connected vehicles, manufacturing sites, and digital products, integrating security functions into mobile apps and in-vehicle services.
As part of the agreement, Stellantis aims to modernize its IT infrastructure by leveraging Microsoft’s Azure cloud platform, with a target of reducing its data center footprint by 60% by 2029. This strategic partnership builds on the existing relationship between Stellantis and Microsoft, which have previously collaborated on connected vehicle platforms and in-car digital services.