ZF plans to partner two Indian startups
In recent days, the race for self-driven vehicles has become complex due to firms tying up with multiple partners.
Hyderabad: With the race for automated driving tech hotting up, German tech firm ZF is considering collaborating with two Indian start-ups to further its goals, according to a top official.
Speaking to this newspaper ZF chief digital officer Mamtha Chamarthi, who was in Hyderabad, said, “The company is open to all options (partnership or acquisition). We already collaborate with Nvidia and recently, we had invited startups from all over the world. Two startups from India managed to pique our interest with their technology. We think their technology, if developed further, can help the product become better.”
In recent days, the race for self-driven vehicles has become complex due to firms tying up with multiple partners. So, when asked whether ZF would prefer tie-ups with big firms or with start-ups, Ms Chamarthi said, “While we wouldn’t rule out the big firms, startups can provide us with useful insights due to their focused approach towards a problem.”
When asked about the two Indian start-ups she said, “It’s too early to reveal anything more but we hope to share it soon.” ZF, which inaugurated its technology centre in Hyderabad in March, is also considering building a test track for their automated vehicles after the Government of Telangana offered land for it.