Google to build self-driving car with Fiat Chrysler

NEW YORK

Google and Fiat Chrysler will partner to build self-driving vehicles, the companies said Tuesday.

Fiat Chrysler will design and engineer approximately 100 vehicles for Google's self-driving technology, while Google will provide sensors and computers for the vehicles in order for them to navigate roads autonomously, according to a joint statement released on PR Newswire.

It is the first time Google will work directly with a carmaker to integrate its "Self-Driving Car Project" into a passenger vehicle, which Fiat Chrysler will provide 2017 models of Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivans.

The minivans are planned to be used later this year for Google's self-driving testing, according to the statement.

"The opportunity to work closely with FCA [Fiat Chrysler Automobiles] engineers will accelerate our efforts to develop a fully self-driving car that will make our roads safer and bring everyday destinations within reach for those who cannot drive," said John Krafcik, Chief Executive Officer, Google Self-Driving Car Project.

Sergio Marchionne, Chief Executive Office of FCA, praised the partnership with Google that will "accelerate the pace of innovation in the automotive industry.” He added: "The experience both companies gain will be fundamental to delivering automotive technology solutions that ultimately have far-reaching consumer benefits."

Self-driving cars have the potential to prevent around 33,000 deaths that occur each year on U.S. roads, 94 percent of which are caused by human error, according to the statement.

NEW YORK

Google and Fiat Chrysler will partner to build self-driving vehicles, the companies said Tuesday.

The minivans are planned to be used later this year for Google's self-driving testing, according to the statement.

Self-driving cars have the potential to prevent around 33,000 deaths that occur each year on U.S. roads, 94 percent of which are caused by human error, according to the statement.