Samsung to provide in-car infotainment systems to Tata Motors

The home-grown automajor Tata Motors and South Korean electronics major Samsung have entered into a collaboration, under which Samsung will provide in-car infotainment systems to Tata Motors.

Tata Motors will launch passenger vehicles next year, which will be equipped with Samsung's 'Drive Link Application' based on MirrorLink technology that will help driver in answering calls, navigation, accessing music and internet. The system will also offer on-board diagnostics and vehicle lifecycle management information. Tata Motors and Samsung also demonstrated future possibilities for next-generation infotainment using tablets for rear-seat passengers.

Tata Motors is looking at equipping the system to its mass segment cars, and not just to vehicles like Aria and Safari. Samsung and Tata Motors have been working on this project for last six months.

Mr. Ranjit Yadav, President, Passenger Vehicle Business Unit, Tata Motors said, "In our Horizonext journey towards great products that match customer needs, ConnectNext is one of the key "Next" pillars that offers a first-to-market product, that taps an immediate customer need to be more connected with his/her working and social world. We see technology as a key enabler and are delighted to partner with another industry leader, Samsung, to offer what our consumers, especially our young, professional consumers, demand from their vehicles. This is in line with our philosophy to offer great new features to our customers to create differentiated products features that are relevant to the present and scalable for the future". Drivelink partnership is our first major step in this direction.

Mr Sameer Garde, Country Head - Enterprise Business, Samsung India Electronics Limited, said, "We are delighted to partner Tata Motors on their journey in building an exciting new range of passenger vehicles. Samsung's Drive Link application on MirrorLinkTM technology, for controlling nearby smartphones from the steering wheel or via dashboard buttons or touch screen, ensures users retain the core functionality of their smartphones, while making sure their experience of hands free in-vehicle services is as safe as possible. The Drive Link's interface is clear and uncluttered, perfect for quick and intuitive use when on the move".

Samsung also has a global tie-up with BMW for developing music system; partnership with Tata Motors is Samsung's first-of-its kind collaboration in India. The Drive link application is designed especially for smart phones and tablets, which can be used on the go. The system will also offer on-board diagnostics and vehicle lifestyle management information.