Fiat-Chrysler Could Partner With Uber on Self-Driving Cars: Report

Steph Willems
by Steph Willems

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles CEO Sergio Marchionne could be on the cusp of a new (corporate) romance.

The automaker is talking with ride-sharing megaprovider Uber about join forces on a self-driving vehicle venture, according to Automotive News. Sources close to the matter say those talks are in the early phase, but a agreement could be announced before the end of the year.

FCA is no stranger to seeking autonomous vehicle relationships. An agreement with Amazon’s delivery services fell through, and Marchionne’s wooing of Apple didn’t go anywhere, but the automaker did ink a deal with Google earlier this year to test a fleet of self-driving Chrysler Pacifica minivans at a new Michigan facility.

That relationship has a firm end date, so FCA’s on the make hunt for other partners to further Marchionne’s self-driving dreams. The sources close to the Uber talks said the company is still considering other automakers.

Marchionne has repeatedly expressed his desire to develop self-driving technology, but his company’s dodgy financial standing means doing it in-house, or buying a startup, is off the table. Other automakers have snapped up promising tech startups or spun off subsidiaries in the hopes of gaining ground in the race to develop connected, autonomous vehicle fleets.

The Google partnership saw engineering teams from both companies agree to work alongside each other, testing new technology (and working out the bugs) on 100 Pacifica hybrids. Those modified vehicles are purpose-built, and won’t ever be offered for sale.

While FCA is strapped, Uber Technologies is overflowing with investor cash, and can choose whatever partner it pleases.

Steph Willems
Steph Willems

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  • Bobman Bobman on Jun 09, 2016

    At this stage, it seems wise to stay loose and associate with many.

  • Big Al from Oz Big Al from Oz on Jun 09, 2016

    Here comes FCA's Johnny Cabs! All that is needed is Arnie to unveil the first FCA/Uber Johnny Cab.

  • Yamahog Yamahog on Jun 09, 2016

    What is Chrysler offering that Toyota isn't? When it comes to autonomous cars owned by companies, all that matters are the accommodations (interior space, nvh, materials) and the cost of operation on a per mile basis. Look no further than our resident HELLCAT enthusiast, he runs an Uber service and he isn't buying Chrysler products for his transportation company.

  • Shiv91 Shiv91 on Jun 10, 2016

    Yawn. Just build good cars.

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