Nissan announced their partnership with Microsoft at the CES, which will bring cloud connectivity to the electric Leaf models and Infiniti models in Europe.

The new telematics system will be powered by Microsoft’s Azure and will allow a remote connection to the vehicle, allowing the driver to perform a range of functions on their car from the convenience of their smartphones.

Microsoft Azure is a secure global cloud platform that is the first to adopt the first international privacy standard ISO 27018, securing this way the stability and safety of the service.

Drivers can turn on and adjust the climate control of the vehicle and set charging functions remotely, even when the car is powered down among other functions. There is even an onboard timer which can be programmed to start the charging procedure.

Nissan will also be able to send over-the-air POI updates to the car, enabling customers to always have up-to-date info on the company’s services.

“Microsoft Azure will help us deliver a more innovative and intelligent future for our connected technologies,” said Celso Guiotoko, Nissan’s chief information officer and corporate vice president in charge of global corporate IS/IT. “This is also a bold first step toward innovations that will realize future new mobility.”

“Our partnership with Nissan shows what automakers can accomplish by tapping into Microsoft’s intelligent cloud platform,” said Peggy Johnson, Microsoft’s executive vice president of business development. “Further, our collaboration reveals tremendous possibilities for how consumers can get more out of their connected driving experience.”

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