Intel Mulling Over Auto Industry

What do computer hardware manufacturers and the automotive sector have in common? Quite a lot, especially if we take into account the current trends that are pushing carmakers towards electric cars and hybrids. As a result, technology companies across the world are aiming to get involved more in the auto sector and supply all kind of advanced solutions to be integrated into future models.

Such an example is Intel Corp. who's already one of the giants of the technology sector. The company is now seeking opportunities in the auto sector and looks at ways to get more involved by partnering with green car developers over a number of areas.

John Skinner, Intel's director of marketing for its Eco-Technology division, told Reuters that his company could very well supply technology for energy management and range prediction, thus gaining a key role in an electric car's designing process.

"Electric vehicles are going to contain a lot of electronics," he said. "It would be an extension of our business in telematics."

This isn't the first time when Intel gets involved in the auto sector. The company earlier this year joined forces with OpenSynergy for the development of a new platform to be used in cars and run open-standard infotainment solutions.

Meanwhile more and more automakers are struggling to design green vehicles as they are often described as the only way to cope with the crisis. For example, both Chrysler and General Motors entered bankruptcy during the summer and emerged with healthier balances. Both of them are now encouraged to develop greener cars and expand their presence into this side of the market.