Microsoft opens vehicle center in Shanghai

Microsoft launched its first vehicle center of excellence at its Shanghai research and development center on Tuesday.

The hub is designed to showcase the innovative solutions of Microsoft's cutting-edge technology in vehicle manufacturing to customers, said Gordon Frazer, vice-president and Greater China chief operating officer of Microsoft.

The center will provide industry-leading solutions based on Microsoft technology and enable automotive manufacturers, suppliers and customers to form a more intelligent ecosystem, said Martin Dubé, Asia-Pacific General Manager for Industry Customers of Microsoft.

The firm has long provided solutions in areas of digital marketing, customer relationship management and reseller collaboration, and will extend such practices to the research and development stage for automakers.

Qoros Automotive Co Ltd is the first carmaker in China, in collaboration with Windows Azure, to develop the infotainment system based on a public cloud platform. The platform enables motorists to always remain connected to navigation and traffic information, their social networks, and the car's condition, maintenance and service requirements.