Google-Ford Self-Driving Cars Out By 2020? New Technology Features Detailed

It's hardly a matter of speculation now that both Google and Ford harbor the ambition of becoming pioneers in the still nascent self-driving car market.

But are these two companies coming together to announce a joint venture?

Judging by all the rumors swirling in the automotive sector, it seems highly likely that they are, although nothing is confirmed yet.

According to a Yahoo Auto report, Google is keen on joining forces with Ford and plans to come up with an announcement in this regard sometime soon.

Meanwhile, another report by Automotive News suggests that the deal between the two companies is almost confirmed and representatives from both Google and Ford are currently negotiating hard on a contract manufacturing deal.

Yahoo also reports that the new venture could lead to the creation of a separate entity.

It is also believed that Google wants a non-exclusive deal which would allow it for partnership with other car manufacturers as well.

While neither of the two companies has made any official announcements yet, rumors are that the first of Google-Ford self-driving cars will hit the streets by 2020.

Worth noting, Ford has its own research and development wing for self-development cars and the company continues investing hefty sums in future mobility trends.

Based on the technology both the companies have at their disposal so far, it is highly possible that Google-Ford self-driving cars could utilize the upgraded versions of promising current technologies such as the Ford's Sync 3 connected infotainment system, along with next-generation in-car apps (via Smart Device Link, an open source platform), Internet of Things connectivity and so on.

However, many observers believe that Google would love to fully rely on its own technologies when it comes to the key specs and features, including sensors and artificial intelligence.

Existing prototypes of Google self-driving cars carry equipment worth $150,000 including a $70,000 LIDAR system and Velodyne 64-beam laser mounted on the vehicles.

How many of these technologies eventually make it to the final builds of the Google-Ford robotic cars, remains a matter of speculation.

However, considering that Ford definitely won't like to play the role of only a contract manufacturer responsible for supplying and assembling regular car parts like the engine, wheels, seats and so on, it is quite likely that these vehicles will boast the best of technologies from both companies.