Chinese Automaker Great Wall Motors to Implement Software Update Technology by Harman

Remote vehicle updating services developed in Israel by Samsung’s connected car and audio technology subsidiary Harman International Industries will be implemented in all vehicles by Baoding, China-headquartered automaker Great Wall Motors Company Ltd. launching in 2019, Harman announced Thursday.

For daily updates, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here.

 

Harman’s technology allows carmakers to remotely update a vehicle’s software, from the operating system as a whole, down to its smallest ingredients including engine control units, firmware, applications, and maps, without requiring physical access to the car. Harman’s infotainment systems have already been integrated into Great Wall Motors’ vehicles for several years, Sanjay Dhawan, Harman’s chief technology officer said in a statement.

Founded in 1980 and headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, Harman develops connected technologies for automotive, consumer and enterprise markets. Harman was acquired by Samsung in 2017 for $8 billion. Along with Harman, Samsung also acquired two Israeli car companies—software updates management technology company Harman RedBend, acquired by Harman in 2015, and automotive cybersecurity company TowerSec Inc., which was acquired in 2016 and set up as Harman’s local office. The company employs 30,000 people in offices in the U.S., Argentina, Europe, Asia, and Israel.

Israeli companies have taken a central role in developing technologies for the auto industry in recent years. In 2017, Intel acquired Jerusalem-based automotive chipmaker Mobileye for $15.3 billion; German auto parts maker Continental AG announced the acquisition of Israel-based automotive cybersecurity company Argus Cyber Security Ltd.; and Daimler, Hyundai, Renault-Nissan, SEAT, and Skoda have launched or announced plans to launch research and development centers or technology incubators in Israel.