Google-Chrysler hookup is real

The Chrysler Pacifica will be able to drive itself.

Google’s Self-Driving Car Project and Fiat Chrysler announced that the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivans would be integrated into Google’s self-driving test program, the first time that Google has worked directly with an automaker. The number of Pacificas to be added to the Google fleet will be greater than the total size of the fleet today.

FCA will engineer around 100 vehicles for Google, which will integrate its sensors and computers. The project will be located in southeast Michigan.

John Krafcik, Chief Executive Officer of the Google Self-Driving Car Project, said, “FCA has a nimble and experienced engineering team and the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan is well-suited for Google’s self-driving technology.”

Around 33,000 deaths occur each year on U.S. roads, 94% of which are caused by human error.

Google’s self-driving cars are currently being tested in four U.S. cities. Self-driving Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivans will be tested at Google’s private test track in California before running on public roads.

Sergio Marchionne, CEO of FCA, had previously said that the company would seek partnerships for autonomous-car technology rather than creating it in-house.

The story was scooped by numerous publications before the announcement.

Read more at: http://www.allpar.com/news/2016/05/google-chrysler-hookup-is-real-31726