Bosch is working with Microsoft to develop a software platform for seamless connection of vehicles to the cloud. The aim of this collaboration is to simplify and accelerate the development and implementation of automotive software solutions throughout the life of a vehicle, in accordance with automotive quality standards. The new platform, which will be based on Microsoft Azure and incorporate Bosch software modules, will allow the software to be developed and downloaded to the vehicle’s control units and computers. Next, the collaboration will focus on the development of tools that increase efficiency in the software development process. This will stimulate innovation and reduce the cost of developing software for vehicles within an organization, but also between them. For drivers, the platform will provide faster access to new digital features and services. The collaboration between Bosch and Microsoft combines the diversity of the world’s leading automotive software, electronics and systems expertise with Microsoft’s knowledge of software engineering and cloud computing. Both companies plan to make the new software platform available for the first vehicle prototypes by the end of 2021.

“Today, Bosch is safely updating its automotive software in the cloud. With the comprehensive platform for software-defined vehicles, we want to continue to support automakers to develop new features and implement them faster,” says Dr. Markus Heyn, Board Member of Robert Bosch GmbH.

“Our collaboration with Bosch brings together the expertise of one of the world’s leading automotive suppliers with the power of the Microsoft, IA and GitHub cloud,” said Scott Guthrie, Executive Vice President, Cloud + IA, Microsoft.

“As software quickly becomes a key differentiator in the automotive industry, our ambition is to help companies accelerate the delivery of unique mobility services for cars and large-scale commercial vehicle fleets.”