REPORT: BlackBerry, JLR in Talks on Software Platform for Autonomous Cars

Canada’s BlackBerry Ltd. is in advanced talks to supply software for self-driving cars to Jaguar Land Rover Ltd., sources tell Bloomberg News.

A deal would allow JLR to license BlackBerry’s QNX operating platform for as much as $25 per vehicle, according to Bloomberg. Like a laptop’s operating system, QNX provides functionality for a device and integrates software programs supplied by others.

Carmakers have used the QNX platform to date primarily to manage infotainment systems. BlackBerry says 60 million vehicles currently use its software.

The company is eager to expand its automotive business and has been promoting the cybersecurity features of its platform. Last year it opened a research center for self-driving vehicles outside Ottawa. In September the company partnered with Delphi Automotive plc to develop a system capable of controlling autonomous vehicles.

If a deal is concluded, Bloomberg says JLR likely would build the QNX platform into next-generation models. Ford Motor Co. has been doing that with the BlackBerry system since the two companies struck an agreement a year ago.