STLA Stellantis NV

Alphabet Inc.'s Google has begun work with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV on self-driving technology for testing in Pacifica minivans, and will open an engineering and development center in a Detroit suburb, Google's autonomous vehicle chief said Wednesday.

A new office in Novi, Mich., will serve as the base for Google's autonomous driving research in Michigan, according to a statement by John Krafcik, Google's self-driving car project chief executive. Engineers will begin moving into the site this year.

The Google car team has been a leader in developing autonomous car technology, and signed a deal earlier this month to begin collaborating with Fiat Chrysler as its first automotive partner. Google has been testing its technology in several locations, including Silicon Valley, spurring several automotive companies to accelerate their efforts with self-driving cars.

The Novi site selection indicates Google is expanding in Detroit with its autonomous-car research even as it has been slow to find a group of partners among the established car makers. Some executives are reluctant to give Google too much control, while others aim to develop the technology themselves.

The Detroit area is home to many auto parts suppliers, engineering firms and research offices, some of which have been doing business with Google.

"Many of our current partners are based here, so having a local facility will help us collaborate more easily and access Michigan's top talent in vehicle development and engineering," according to Mr. Krafcik's online posting.

Google has begun working with Fiat Chrysler engineers on the development of technology and processes to install self-driving technology into 100 Pacific hybrid minivans. The aim is to research techniques that will allow autonomous driving technology to be installed on the assembly line and work better on the roadways.

The Pacifica is a new product in Chrysler showrooms, replacing the Town & Country that was popular for decades with minivan owners.

Fiat Chrysler Chief Executive Sergio Marchionne has said he has hopes for the partnership but much will be determined based on this current minivan effort and Google's preferences. The minivans are intended to hit the test track by the end of the year, and won't sold to the public.

Write to Jeff Bennett at jeff.bennett@wsj.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

May 25, 2016 14:45 ET (18:45 GMT)

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