New Electric Vehicle Model 'Megan E-Tech' Equipped with Infotainment System
First Acquisition of Google Automotive Services (GAS) License for Android 10 Version
Customers Conveniently Use Various Google Services and Android Apps
Next-generation infotainment system by LG Electronics applied to Renault Group's Megane E-Tech vehicle.
[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyewon] LG Electronics announced on the 1st that it is supplying the next-generation infotainment (IVI) system for the new electric vehicle model 'Megan E-Tech' from France's Renault Group. LG Electronics and Renault previously unveiled the jointly developed next-generation infotainment system at 'IAA Mobility 2021' held in Munich, Germany, last September.
The next-generation infotainment system developed by the two companies is based on Google's Android Automotive OS. It applies the latest version of the Android OS, Android 10, and has obtained the Google Automotive Services (GAS) license. GAS provides various Google services and Android apps such as Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play that can be used on Android Automotive devices. This is the first system to receive the GAS license with the Android 10 version.
Considering that about 70% of mobile device OS market share is Android OS, customers who have been using Android OS previously can also use the car infotainment system comfortably.
The two companies have developed a software platform that can operate independently of hardware for the first time. This platform supports an Ethernet interface, a local area network between the cluster (instrument panel) and the central information display (CID), allowing the cluster to display Google Maps screens or control music and videos. The platform includes a Firmware Over The Air (FOTA) feature that automatically updates via wireless internet, enabling customers to always use the latest OS version. It is also possible to check the electric vehicle's charging status from outside the vehicle.
Interior view of the Renault Group Megane E-Tech vehicle equipped with LG Electronics' next-generation infotainment system.
Recently, the proportion of automakers choosing Android OS has been increasing. LG Electronics developed a software platform based on Android Automotive OS that can operate independently of hardware, enhancing customer value by enabling Renault to apply it to various vehicles.
To develop this infotainment system, LG Electronics applied the SAFe (Scaled Agile Framework) methodology. SAFe is one of the methodologies used to manage large-scale development projects. It allows agile responses to changes in customer requirements and establishes development processes from an integrated perspective, making it useful for project management. LG Electronics believes that SAFe can reflect rapidly changing industry trends and satisfy customer requirements.
Thierry Kamal, Global Vice President of Renault Software Factory Alliance, said, "The digital cockpit has rapidly changed the way drivers and passengers interact with vehicles, enhancing personalization and comfort," adding, "Continuous collaboration with LG Electronics played a crucial role in applying an outstanding Android cockpit to Megan E-Tech."
Kim Jinyong, Vice President and Head of LG Electronics' VS Business Division, emphasized, "We developed a software platform and infotainment system for premium vehicles to meet market demand and customer expectations," adding, "We will continue to showcase differentiated in-vehicle experiences through close collaboration with customers and further strengthen LG Electronics' position in the global automotive industry."
LG Electronics is promoting its automotive parts business, a future growth engine, through three pillars: the infotainment-focused VS Business Division, ZKW responsible for premium automotive lamp business, and LG Magna e-Powertrain, a joint venture in the electric vehicle powertrain sector.
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