Major Automotive CompanyCase Study: Major Automotive Company
A major automotive company in the United States was seeking to automate downloading various firmware and software to modules during new car production and at dealers for updating.
challenge
Firmware automation would save significant manual effort and ensure that cars were always up to date with the latest versions. Two RFP’s were issued: one for the update client in the car to receive the new versions, either at the factory or dealer, and the secure server software to send the updates to the vehicle.
solution
While losing the bid for the client, the Brainware Partners CEO convinced his customer to bid on the server which he believed was where the real money was to be made. Coming in from an unknown, the other bidders were out-worked, along with developing a much better solution and support. This bid succeeded, and the customer was awarded the contract, worth up to $20 million. A very complex contract was negotiated under the leadership of Brainware Partners’ CEO.
In addition, since the customer had other interesting software, it was demonstrated how one could move music, playlists, and other content from a PC to the car’s radio via WiFi and securely. This was quite unique 15 years ago. A business plan was established with the auto company, the deal being worth over $200 million over 5 years due to selling advertising along with the capability. A worldwide marketing plan was proposed as well.
results
This turned out to be the forerunner of what is today’s Infotainment. This was also shown to some Chinese auto companies who were highly interested. Unfortunately, the 2008 meltdown of the auto industry happened just as this was to be consummated and all projects were halted. This does demonstrate, however, the capabilities of the Brainware Partners team, i.e., the ability to develop new markets, engineer products, both hardware and software, and provide exemplary support.