Ford, as we all know, is one of the most renowned automakers globally. Google, on the other hand, is a prominent name in the tech ecosphere. When they decide to do something together, the whole world ought to take notice. To offer a modern, digitalised and connected experience, Ford has partnered with Google. Together, they’ve formed a squad – Team Upshift – to achieve all those goals. And the six-year partnership will come into effect in 2023.

Google’s Android platform will power all future Ford and Lincoln models. That means cars will boast Google’s Assistant to support voice commands and other features like maps and Google Play will come built-in. Ford will leverage Google’s know-how on data analytics to accelerate the automaker’s digital transformation, modernise operations and power connected vehicle technologies.

Using Google Cloud, Ford aims to improve customer experiences by offering personalised services. The platform will also play a vital role in upgrading product development and manufacturing techniques and bolster supply chain operations. Ford says that it aims to implement data-driven business models that will offer customers real-time notices such as maintenance or trade-in alerts. Projects like new retail experiences while purchasing a vehicle and offering new ownership-based deals are also in this partnership’s scope.

Here’s what Jim Farley, who is the president and CEO of Ford Motor Company, said in an official release:

As Ford continues the most profound transformation in our history with electrification, connectivity and self-driving, Google and Ford coming together establishes an innovation powerhouse truly able to deliver a superior experience for our customers and modernise our business.

Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google and Alphabet, shared his views. He said:

We’re proud to partner to apply the best of Google’s AI, data analytics, compute and cloud platforms to help transform Ford’s business and build automotive technologies that keep people safe and connected on the road.

The Android platform also provides the flexibility to Ford and Google to tweak and develop applications which could offer more personalised services and, in turn, a better ownership experience. What’s your take on this partnership?