Tencent and partners plan to roll out smart e-car project

Internet giant Tencent, electronics contract manufacturer Foxconn and car dealership China Harmony Auto Holding Co will launch a smart electric car project under a framework agreement.

Tencent will be responsible for an Internet open platform that integrates web-based services while Foxconn will work on the design and manufacturing technology that combines smart devices and electric vehicles, according to a joint statement yesterday.

Hong Kong-listed China Harmony would contribute its experience and expertise in high-end car sales and services.

But the three partners didn't release a timetable for the launch.

Earlier this month, Premier Li Keqiang outlined an "Internet Plus" action plan in the government work report to propel the integration of mobile Internet, cloud computing, big data, the Internet of Things and modern manufacturing to develop further e-commerce and Internet finance.

"I believe the partnership would serve as a valuable lesson on the integration of the Internet industry with the manufacturing sector," Tencent Chairman Pony Ma said in a statement.

The strategic agreement between the three parties came at a time when a number of Internet companies are trying to exert their influence in vertical areas such as smartphone making and automobile.

Also yesterday, LeTV's Holding Co, the parent of the listed online video streaming company, and Leshi Internet Information & Technology Corp also teamed up with BAIC Motor Corp for a smart system to incorporate into the carmaker's new models.