LONDON (Alliance News) - AA PLC on Tuesday said it has inked a joint venture deal to develop connected-car software for services provided by roadside assistance clubs.
The venture, which has been named Intelematics Europe, will be co-owned by the AA, roadside assistance clubs in the Netherland and in Austria, and Intelematics, which provides similar services in Australia and has a joint venture in the US with Auto Club Enterprises.
The technology will enable information to be shared through a small device embedded in the vehicle in question, which could be used to improve safety and security of vehicles and people in them. The AA said such information could help it to pre-empt and diagnose breakdowns, improve the way it responds to help, and speed up service.
In addition, tracking information on driving could enable customers to secure cheaper car insurance.
The AA said it wants to work with UK car manufacturers to make the most of the new technology.
"This is a powerful partnership - it gives us access to existing solutions which are tried, tested and widely adopted; it gives us reach across international manufacturers at a global level; and it gives us the ability both to roll out existing solutions fast and develop ever more sophisticated solutions in time," Executive Chairman Bob Mackenzie said.
"The AA is embracing connected-car technology so that our members will benefit directly through advancements in safety and security, and information to help reduce driving costs. Connectivity will improve both timing and diagnostics of the AA's roadside assistance services and enable us to increase efficiency," Mackenzie added.
By Samuel Agini; samagini@alliancenews.com; @samuelagini
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