Intel boosts role in driving project

The chip maker plans a bigger collaboration with Waymo’s new autonomous Chrysler Pacifica minivans.

Intel Corp. says it is expanding its relationship with Google spinoff Waymo in the development of selfdriving cars.

The world’s largest computer chip maker said Monday that it will take on a more collaborative role with Waymo’s new self-driving Chrysler Pacifica minivans. Intel will continue to supply technology for the autonomous driving project.

Waymo’s Chrysler Pacifica fleet is fitted with Intel technology for sensor processing, general computing and connectivity. “As Waymo’s self-driving technology becomes smarter and more capable, its high performance hardware and software will require even more powerful and efficient compute,” Intel Chief Executive Brian Krzanich said in a statement.

No financial details of the deal between Intel and Waymo were announced.

Waymo spun off from Google late last year and is an independent company still owned by Google parent Alphabet Inc.

Intel, based in Santa Clara, recently acquired Israel’s Mobileye, a visionprocessing specialist that pairs onboard cameras with specialized computer chips to identify outside self-driving vehicles. The data guide the car through its current environment and can be evaluated later to help improve driverless systems.

BMW, Intel and Mobileye announced an autonomous vehicle partnership last year.

Intel’s growth has suffered as desktop and laptop computer sales appear to have peaked.

It has been expanding its automobile, artificial intelligence and other segments that promise rapid growth.