Same Foundation, Different Flavor
Honda and Nissan formalized plans earlier this year to jointly develop and standardize key software and electronics for their next-generation vehicles. Now, the picture is getting more detailed after Applied Intuition announced partnerships with both automakers. Interestingly, however, the U.S.-based AI startup is working with each company individually.
This approach has pros and cons. A shared vehicle operating system for software-defined vehicles (SDVs) could speed development and lower costs, while separate work with Applied Intuition could let Honda and Nissan differentiate their final products, which may be crucial as they remain separate companies after failed merger talks. On the flip side, involving more parties could increase integration complexity.
Honda
Getting Ready for the Future
On the Honda front, the Japanese automaker is using Applied Intuition’s Vehicle OS to help create a centralized, upgradable full-vehicle software platform that can support multiple powertrains, including hybrids. That’s crucial given the brand’s diverse lineup, which includes models like the CR-V Hybrid and CR-V e:FCEV, though the Prologue, its sole battery-electric vehicle in North America, is going out of production after the 2026 model year following a short-lived run.
Honda noted that despite collaborating with a third party, it wants to retain control over its vehicle architecture and software direction.
Meanwhile, Nissan’s partnership goes somewhat further into AI-assisted vehicle development. Applied Intuition will provide its Vehicle OS and AI-powered development tools for the automaker’s scalable next-gen in-vehicle software platform.
Developing a Vehicle OS for SDVs can enable several advanced functions, including OTA updates, which let automakers like Tesla add features and address certain software issues remotely. It essentially connects different vehicle controls and driver-assistance systems through one software platform, enabling smarter and more advanced features than were possible in older, more analog cars.
The Next-Gen Playbook
Applied Intuition did not disclose when software resulting from either of its new partnerships will reach production vehicles. However, this isn’t the first time the Silicon Valley startup has worked with Honda and Nissan. Honda became its first Japanese OEM customer in 2019, while Nissan adopted its simulation technology in 2020.
For car buyers, the collaborations could ultimately mean cars that gain new features and receive fixes faster, while still offering distinct user interfaces and experiences for each brand despite the shared foundation.
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