GM

General Motors (GM) and Lyft have entered into a long-term strategic alliance for an integrated network of on-demand autonomous vehicles in the US.

As part of this alliance, GM will invest $500m in Lyft to help the firm continue its growth in ridesharing service. The company will also hold a seat on Lyft’s board of directors.

Key aspects of this alliance include on Autonomous On-Demand Network, Rental Hub, Connectivity and Mobility.

With regard to Autonomous On-Demand Network, GM’s knowledge of autonomous technology and Lyft’s capabilities in providing a broad choice of ride-sharing services will be leveraged.

"With GM and Lyft working together, we believe we can successfully implement this vision more rapidly."

With immediate effect, GM will become a preferred provider of short-term use vehicles to Lyft drivers through rental hubs in several US cities. Lyft drivers and customers will also gain access to GM’s portfolio of cars and OnStar services in order to offer a richer ride-sharing experience for both drivers and passengers.

Through a joint mobility plan, GM and Lyft will provide each other’s customers personalised mobility services.

GM president Dan Ammann said: "We see the future of personal mobility as connected, seamless and autonomous.

"With GM and Lyft working together, we believe we can successfully implement this vision more rapidly."

Lyft president and co-founder John Zimmer said: "Working with GM, Lyft will continue to unlock new transportation experiences that bring positive change to our daily lives.

"Together, we will build a better future by redefining traditional car ownership."

Founded in June 2012 by Logan Green and John Zimmer, it provides rideshare services in more than 190 cities.

General Motors and its partners manufacture vehicles in 30 countries.

Image: This strategic alliance is aimed at creating an integrated network of on-demand autonomous vehicles in the US. Photo: courtesy of General Motors.