Well, this is a bit surprising. Fiat Chrysler and Google announced a collaboration earlier this week to create a new Android-based automotive infotainment system — now Panasonic Automotive and Qualcomm are joining forces to create another one. They are touting this concept as "next-generation," whatever that means anymore.

Based on Android 7.0 Nougat, this concept will utilize the operating system's ability to scale to multiple screen sizes, applications, and resolutions. This will offer manufacturers much more flexibility in creating in-dash units that fit with their overall design and aesthetic.

It is also of note that Google is cited in the PR as being involved to some degree in this collaboration. Concepts do not always come to full fruition, but I can't help but wonder what Panasonic's and FCA's new systems mean for Android Auto. I suppose that it is anyone's guess at this point.

CES attendees can check out the tech demo throughout the convention.

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