Samsung considering entering smart-car business

Samsung Electronics is reportedly considering entering the business of smart-cars, including the manufacture of components for self-driving cars, and has said that it will create a new team to focus on in-car entertainment, satellite navigation and autonomous driving. Apple and Google are also said to be considering offering self-driving cars.

Chris Woodyard

USA TODAY

Samsung Electronics said Wednesday it is looking at getting into the connected car business, including exploring whether to make components for self-driving cars.

It issued a statement saying it is creating a team that will focus on in-car entertainment, satellite navigation and autonomous driving, Reuters reports.

The South Korean tech giant's timing could be about right. Google and Apple are both thought to be exploring whether to offer self-driving cars. Traditional automakers have hopped into the fray as well.

While it could take several years to ramp up product development and production, true self-driving cars are still a few years away. Some companies, like Nissan, are shooting for 2020.

Reuters says Samsung is looking for new opportunities as its smartphone business has weakened.