Shanghai (ZXZC)- Audi announced on July 10 that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Huawei, China's leading provider of ICT (information and communications technology) infrastructure and smart devices, to develop in-depth cooperation in ICV (intelligent-connected vehicle) area.

The agreement constitutes part of a broad-based partnership between companies in China and Germany initiated by Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

An ICV is allowed to exchange relevant information with the surroundings. To achieve this, cars should be backed by high-quality and stable connection. Besides, intensive researches and tests are rather crucial to the expansion of communication. The cooperation between Audi and Huawei will be intended to propel a further development of autonomous driving and digitalization in automobile service area. In addition, both parties also agreed to jointly develop a program to strengthen the training of expertise for technology talents from both companies.

“Teaming up with Huawei, we will improve our joint research in ICV area,” said Saad Metz, executive vice president of Audi China, and added “we aim to create smart cities through improving safety and optimizing urban traffic flows. Relevant researches will initially focus on Chinese market.”

“We are ushering in a new era of ICV where new technological synergies between ICT and automotive industry are surfacing. With increasing innovation in mobile connectivity, Huawei will contribute its effort to the reform of driving experience,” said Mr. Veni Shone, president of Huawei LTE solution.

Partnering with Huawei and China's authorities, Audi became the first global automaker who participated in the public road testing under a LTE-V deployment project in Wuxi. “LTE-V” is a mobile communication standard, which is specially designed for ICVs. Based on this technology, drivers are provided with real-time traffic information relying on the connection to traffic light system and video monitoring facilities at crossings.