"We were convinced we had to develop an open platform that would allow for open software since the speed in the infotainment and entertainment industry requires us to be on a much faster track. We invite other OEMs to join with us, to exchange with us. We are open to exchange with others,” Gunter Reichart, BMW vice president of driver assistance, body electronics and electrical networks, said according to the aforementioned source.
The Linux-based platform is 100 percent open-source which means the other car manufacturers can adopt the platform free of charge. However, BMW's goal is to convince other carmakers to get involve into the development of the platform in order expand its compatibility to almost any vendor, fix problems and improve it faster using the support of all members. General Motors is still considering BMW's proposal, with a response expected during the next 12 months.
"This is a decision we will make in the next six to 12 months. It's a great opportunity for us. I think this can really advance a lot of software development and bring a lot of innovation to the vehicle. So, personally, I'm on board. As a company, there are many things to study here, how we will invest and support this strategy,” Chris Thibodeau, GM's director of global technology engineering for electrical/electronics products, stated.
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