Motherson Sumi Systems, part of the Samvardhana Motherson Group (SMG), through its subsidiary Samvardhana Motherson Automotive Systems Group (SMRPBV), has formed a joint venture with the US-based Ossia for introducing Cota Real Wireless Power technology into vehicle interiors.

Ossia’s patented Cota smart antenna technology delivers wireless power by safely delivering targeted energy to devices. The technology uses radio frequency to power a range of devices like wearables, smartphones, automotive sensors, IoT devices and batteries. Cota technology automatically keeps multiple devices charged without any user intervention, enabling an efficient and truly wire-free, powered-up world, which is always connected.  Briefly put, it is long range wireless power delivered without cables, batteries, line of sight or charging pads.

Motherson Inovations Company, a subsidiary of Samvardhana Motherson Automotive Systems Group, will hold the majority share in the JV, which will be based in the USA and supported by SMG’s global operations. It aims to introduce Ossia’s Cota power system into the interiors of some of the world’s most popular vehicles.

Globally, the JV will focus towards integration of Cota technology into a wide range of non-military passenger, commercial and public transportation vehicles, with an aim to start deploying the systems both in private and public vehicles by 2021. The company says that the system will not only supply continuous wireless power to occupants’ personal devices, but also power various sensors in and on the vehicle itself, including brake sensors, tyre pressure gauges and key fobs. Additionally, the JV will also be a distributor for the wireless power products across multiple verticals including IoT and consumer devices in India.

Commenting on the announcement, Vaaman Sehgal, vice-chairman, SMG, said: “Our customers want access to the most advanced technologies available today. After extensive evaluation of multiple wireless power companies, we have chosen Ossia as our preferred partner and are investing to be a part of the broader Cota ecosystem. Wireless powering the in-cabin experience and various other sensors is a tremendous technological advancement for both vehicle manufacturers and consumers.”

SMG, which is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of components and solutions for global OEMs, is also showcasing Motherson Innovations’ latest offering, the breakthrough ‘Empathic Cockpit’ at the ongoing CES 2018 in Las Vegas.

Mario Obeidat, CEO, Ossia, said, “We are thrilled to be working closely with a global leader like the Samvardhana Motherson Group. This joint venture is a validation of Cota Real Wireless Power, which will be commercialised worldwide for the automotive industry.”

Apart from the JV, Motherson Innovations is also investing $14 million (Rs 88 crore) for a 4.5 percent equity stake in Ossia.