VW Launches “App My Ride” Contest

German carmaker Volkswagen recently announced it will kick-off an open innovation contest on May 3, for the further development of its products. Dubbed “App My Ride,” interested users are invited to help develop applications for the future Infotainment systems. The winner will be selected by a jury of experts and awarded with special prizes.

"A quiet revolution is taking place right now," explains Johann Füller, CEO Hyve AG. "The customer-orientated culture of the Internet places an enormous power in the hands of the users. Leading organizations are starting to harness this power to develop better solutions and increase their competitiveness."

"The participants are supposed to imagine what the purpose of their ideal Infotainment system is and how it would work and now they have the opportunity to make it a reality. At the same time, you can analyze the existing apps on our platform and discuss their design, uses and purposes," explains Dr Peter Oel, Head of "Control Designs and Drivers" of Volkswagen Group Research.

To develop an app, the participants must have the following:

• An idea for an app to be installed in a vehicle
• Graphic design of the user interface
• Programming in Adobe Flash / Flex

Enthusiasts can enter the competition at the following link. Besides cash and non-cash prizes worth up to €14,000, a special prize for students will also be awarded. This involves a placement within Volkswagen Group Research in Tokyo, Shanghai, California or Wolfsburg.

Moreover, the winner of the competition can also expect an exclusive trip to take part in an international vehicle presentation which covers the costs of the flight and hotel.