Southfield-based Lear Corp. Acquires Technology Offering In-Vehicle Connectivity

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Lear Corp., a Southfield-based supplier of automotive seating and electrical distribution systems, today announced it has acquired intellectual property and technology from Autonet Mobile, a software developer for automotive connectivity applications. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"The acquisition of Autonet Mobile's technology is consistent with our strategy of adding software capabilities that will complement our electrical distribution business," says Matt Simoncini, president and CEO of Lear.

As part of the acquisition, Lear hired members of Santa Rosa, Calif.-based Autonet Mobile's software and product development team.

Autonet Mobiles’ technology connects on-board vehicle systems with cloud-based applications via cellular networks. The technology allows drivers and passengers to connect to the Internet using a smartphone or a laptop. Autonet Mobile has partnerships with automotive manufacturers including FCA US LLC, GM, Subaru, and Mercedes, among others.

"We continue to see excellent growth opportunities for our electrical business as consumers demand greater connectivity features for their vehicles,” Simoncini says.    

Autonet Mobile will continue to operate and offer products to the automotive aftermarket through a technology license from Lear.