"As Germany's auto stakeholders look to gain an advantageous position in the global race for autonomous vehicles, Volkswagen, BMW and Daimler/Mercedes Benz, along with component manufacturers Bosch and Continental, are possibly planning an alliance to partner on autonomous driving. Strategic alliances, specifically for research and development, are essential for the advancement of automated driving technology and application, primarily because of the significant investments and resources required. The next wave of consolidation and alliances in the global automotive industry is actually happening." – Vinay Piparsania