Google to test autonomous tech on 2017 Chrysler Pacifica

Nearly 100 of Chrysler's new hybrid minivans will take part in Google's self-driving test program later this year.

Announced by Chrysler parent company FCA, the collaboration between the two firms will see "around" 100 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivans fitted with all the necessary technology to participate in the Google Self-Driving Car Project.

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It marks the first time the search engine giant has worked directly with an automaker, according to FCA.

"Working with Google provides an opportunity for FCA to partner with one of the world's leading technology companies to accelerate the pace of innovation in the automotive industry," FCA chief executive Sergio Marchionne said in a statement.

"The experience both companies gain will be fundamental to delivering automotive technology solutions that ultimately have far-reaching consumer benefits."

Engineering teams from both companies will be co-located at a facility in southeastern Michigan to accelerate the design, testing and manufacturing of the self-driving Pacifica, according to the automaker.

The nearly 100 vans, which will be built by FCA before Google engineers integrate a suite of sensors and computers for autonomous operation, will help to more than double the former's current fleet of self-driving test vehicles.

"FCA has a nimble and experienced engineering team and the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan is well-suited for Google's self-driving technology," Google Self-Driving Car Project CEO John Krafcik said in a statement from FCA.

"The opportunity to work closely with FCA engineers will accelerate our efforts to develop a fully self-driving car that will make our roads safer and bring everyday destinations within reach for those who cannot drive."

Google's self-driving cars are currently being tested in four cities in the United States: Mountain View, Calif.; Austin, Texas; Kirkland, Wash.; and Phoenix, Ariz.

In the project's seven year history, vehicles in the test fleet have autonomously travelled more than 1.5 million miles—equal to more than 2.4 million kilometres—on public roads, according to FCA.

The self-driving Pacifica Hybrid minivans will be tested at Google's California test track before hitting public roads.