South Korea’s electronics behemoth LG Electronics Inc. is teaming up with German automaker Volkswagen Group to develop a service platform allowing seamless Internet connection in cars. A connected car refers to a motor vehicle equipped with Internet access.

The two companies jointly announced on Thursday (local time) that they signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on research and development for the service platform called cross-over platform.

Their cross-over platform would enable drivers to use various functions such as smart home technology and location-based service by utilizing recently developed open cloud technology. The companies announced that, in a few years, they would develop convergence technology allowing car passengers to monitor and control smart devices such as lights, security systems and digital appliances at home while on the road.

A digital “context-sensitive” bulletin screen will keep drivers aware of the status of home in real time. Various infotainment - or portmanteau for information and entertainment - will also be explored.

The two companies will develop “future simple, easy-to-use smart home solutions integrated in vehicle systems,” said Thomas Form, head of the electronics and vehicle research of the German company.

“We think LG’s expertise in smart technology together with Volkswagen’s leadership in the automotive sector will revolutionize the way drivers interact with their vehicles,” said Richard Choi, head of LG Cloud Center.

LG Electronics has cooperated with Volkswagen since the Korean company provided the German company with audio-video products in 2007. In July last year, LG Electronics was selected as Volkswagen’s strategic electronics supplier and partner for the company’s Fast Automotive Supply Tracks program.

By Lee Seung-hoon

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