GM in infotainment software development push

General Motors (GM) has launched a next generation infotainment software development kit (NGI SDK) that allows software developers around the world to develop and test in-vehicle applications for GM’s infotainment systems.

With the NGI SDK, apps can be built to run directly on the vehicle using HTML5 and JavaScript. The development kit includes the native Application Program Interfaces (APIs) that allow developers access to nearly 400 vehicle data points. These include instrument panel measurements, such as trip odometer and vehicle speed; drive information, such as presence of passengers or if the windows are open or closed; vehicle features, such as radio or backup camera; performance and maintenance data, such as oil life and tire pressure; and lights and indicators, such as a burnt-out lightbulb or low washer fluid.

The NGI SDK mimics real vehicle data, allowing developers outside GM to build apps without making frequent trips to Detroit to conduct testing on infotainment modules.
“We want to let developers know that we are open for business,” said Ed Wrenbeck, director of application ecosystem and development, General Motors. GM has nearly 12 million connected vehicles on the road today, the largest fleet of any automaker.

“Our customers want technology to safely allow them or their passengers to stay connected to the outside world no matter where they go. The NGI SDK allows developers to get creative and help us build apps that will create a safer, smarter and more efficient in-vehicle experience for customers,” Wrenbeck said.

From 2015 to 2016, GM has seen data usage by customers increase nearly 200%. Mobile app use for GM vehicles also hit an all-time high in 2016, with more than 225 million interactions.

“The possibilities for vehicle app development are truly endless and can focus on a variety of areas such as fuel efficiency, route planning and vehicle performance,” said Wrenbeck. “Today’s vehicle app developers are early players in an uncluttered marketplace.”