Stellantis, the world’s fourth largest automaker, announced that it will acquire AImotive, a developer of artificial intelligence and autonomous driving software, and has reached an agreement on the acquisition.
Stellantis Chief Software Officer Yves Bonnefont said, “The acquisition of AImotive’s artificial intelligence and autonomous driving technology is an important contribution to Stellantis’ success as a sustainable mobility technology company. AImotive’s leading expertise and entrepreneurial spirit will accelerate our progress toward our Dare Forward 2030 goals.”
AImotive is headquartered in Budapest, Hungary, and the company now has offices in Germany, the U.S., and Japan, with more than 200 talented employees worldwide involved in artificial intelligence and autonomous driving.
AImotive’s technology portfolio is focused on four key areas of artificial intelligence and autonomous driving.
- aiData: artificial intelligence operations and data tools
- aiDrive: an embedded software stack for autonomous driving
- aiWare: silicon chip expertise and intellectual property
- aiSim: development of simulation software for autonomous driving
According to the report, the Stellantis software team has started developing three new technology platforms – STLA Brain, STLA SmartCockpit, STLA AutoDrive – that will be available in four new STLA automotive platforms starting in 2024 (STLA Small, STLA Medium, STLA Large and STLA Frame) for large-scale deployment starting in 2024.
The Stellantis software strategy is expected to generate annual revenues of approximately €20 billion by 2030, supported by more than €30 billion in electrification and software investments by Stellantis, as part of the “Dare Forward 2030” strategic plan.
aiMotive will operate as a subsidiary of Stellantis to maintain its operational independence and entrepreneurial culture. aiMotive founder László Kishonti will continue to serve as Chief Executive Officer. The company will continue to sell its existing technology portfolio, including aiData, aiSim and aiWare, to other partners.
Stellantis will establish a board of directors to oversee aiMotive while maintaining its fast innovation startup model. aiMotive team will become fully part of the Stellantis autonomous driving and artificial intelligence team. The closing of this acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions, including meeting antitrust requirements.
