VW to Connect Its Vehicles to Microsoft's Cloud Tech

Volkswagen is turning to Microsoft to to help the automaker fully realize its vision for future connected cars, and announced a partnership with the tech giant to use its Azure cloud platform to support "more than 5 million" connected vehicles by 2020, the automaker announced.

Volkswagen AG, which approved the agreement Sept. 28, is planning for the cloud technology to support all in-car services for its Volkswagen, Audi, and Porsche vehicles. The One Digital Platform will be built on Azure as well as Azure IoT Edge.

The cloud could eventually support streaming, smart-home connections, personal assistants, perrsonalization, and in-vehicle office work, according to Volkswagen.

As part of the initiative, Volkswagen is setting up a cloud development office near Microsoft's headquarters in Redmon, Washington. Some 300 engineers will work at the office.