Google adds 100 Chrysler hybrid minivans to self-driving fleet

Google just figured out how to make minivans relevant: Make them autonomous.

Google announced Tuesday afternoon that it is teaming with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and adding 100 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivans to its self-driving car fleet, thereby doubling the number of autonomous cars in Google's stable.

This statement confirms a report last week that the two companies were in late-stage talks over a technical partnership.

Perhaps the most significant point of all, this announcement marks the first time Google has partnered directly with a carmaker to produce the tech giant's self-driving cars. Before, Google just bought cars like the Lexus RX crossover or the Toyota Prius and fitted them with its self-driving tech.

"FCA will design the minivans so it’s easy for us to install our self-driving systems," the Google announcement read, "including the computers that hold our self-driving software, and the sensors that enable our software to see what’s on the road around the vehicle."

As for why it chose minivans, Google said it wanted the opportunity to test larger vehicles. Moreover, it also likes the handsfree sliding door design, which allows passengers to enter and exit more easily.

FCA isn't simply functioning as a coach builder, though. Over the coming months, Google will work with the carmaker's engineers to, as Google put it, "better understand how to create a fully self-driving car that can take you from A to B with the touch of a button."

Maybe minivans aren't as passé as I had thought.

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