Along with 40 other automotive industry players, Denso has partnered with the Plug and Play Mobility Program to advance business and development in connectivity, autonomous technology, shared mobility, and electrification.

Plug and Play calls itself a global innovation platform that connects startups with forward-thinking corporations for business development and investment opportunities. Denso is looking to partner with startups that will provide it with necessary solutions or innovative technologies that relate to the future of transportation. Other companies that have partnered with Plug and Play include Ford, Bosch, Nissan, and Toyota Financial Services.

“While we’ve been more self-sufficient in the past, Denso is embracing open innovation to bolster our technology portfolio to keep pace with the rapid changes in the automotive industry,” said Bill Foy, senior vice president of Engineering at Denso's North American headquarters. "We’re thrilled to join the Plug and Play platform, so we can strategically evaluate new partners and opportunities that allow us to quickly and flexibly develop unique solutions that meet the needs of our customers.”

As a member of the Plug and Play ecosystem, Denso will contribute to the growth and success of the startups and entrepreneurs involved. Last year, Japan-based Denso Corporation partnered with Plug and Play Japan.

Plug and Play runs industry-specific accelerator programs globally in 26 locations. Denso participated in its first Plug and Play Summit on July 11 in downtown Detroit. The event brought together Denso executives and other corporate partners with 20 startups that demonstrated their how their emerging technologies can impact mobility.

“Our talented teams in Denso’s Silicon Valley and Tokyo offices are embracing open innovation and working closely alongside Plug and Play to identify and establish partnerships with already-vetted startups that can accelerate our long-term vision of creating a safe and secure future of mobility for all,” said Foy.

Related: Denso Brings Autonomous Vehicle Research and Development to Israel