KPIT Technologies has acquired a majority stake in N-Dream, the Swiss company behind the AirConsole in-car gaming platform, in a move designed to bolster the development of digital experiences within vehicles.
N-Dream, based in Zurich, has grown rapidly since it entered the automotive sector in 2022. Its AirConsole platform, which allows passengers to use their smartphones as controllers for games played on car infotainment screens, is now available in vehicles produced by BMW, MINI, Volkswagen, Audi, and Porsche. With this acquisition, KPIT Technologies increases its ownership of N-Dream to nearly 90 percent, building on an initial 26 percent stake and aiming to further accelerate connected and interactive in-car software deployment worldwide.
Strategic milestone
The acquisition is seen as significant for both the Swiss tech sector and the broader software-defined vehicle market. It marks a notable development for Switzerland's technology ecosystem, involving a home-grown start-up that has found global recognition among major automakers.
"What began as a bold idea in Switzerland has grown into a platform used by leading carmakers around the world. With KPIT's partnership, our innovation culture and creative roots remain at the core of everything we do, while giving us the reach and resources to shape the future of in-car experiences," said Andrin von Rechenberg, Founder of N-Dream.
AirConsole's platform stands out in the marketplace by allowing users to connect their smartphones seamlessly as game controllers, integrating both sound and ambient lighting from the vehicle to enhance the overall experience. The platform's adoption by several global car brands highlights the ongoing demand for fresh in-cabin entertainment options. It also features titles licensed from Mattel, such as Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, UNOTM Car Party!, and the PAC-MANTM Championship Edition.
Plans beyond gaming
Looking beyond gaming, N-Dream intends to harness its expertise in digital mobility to develop new categories of in-cabin software. These forthcoming offerings are expected to emphasise interactivity, user personalisation, and connectivity, catering to an evolving set of consumer expectations for digital experiences in vehicles.
KPIT Technologies, with its established competencies across multiple automotive domains, is expected to support N-Dream in delivering these services to a broader array of brands and markets. The move positions both companies to capitalise on the trend towards software-defined vehicles and growing demand for immersive, connected automotive experiences.
"This acquisition represents an exciting new chapter for N-Dream. By joining forces with KPIT, we can accelerate our mission to bring fantastic experiences to cars and their users. With KPIT's scale and reach, we're ready to take what we've built to a truly global audience," said Anthony Cliquot, CEO of N-Dream AG.
Continuity in leadership
Under the new ownership arrangement, N-Dream will maintain independence as an entity within the KPIT Group. Its leadership, including CEO Anthony Cliquot, Founder Andrin von Rechenberg (who will act as Chief of Innovation), and CFO Tobias Schneider, will remain unchanged, ensuring operational continuity and stability for existing staff and partners.
The leadership emphasised their commitment to uphold the company's culture and support its team, as well as to continue delivering value for users, partners, and shareholders.
"N-Dream's creativity and technology perfectly complement KPIT's roadmap for next-generation mobility. Together, we will help define the next era of software-defined vehicles, where immersive, connected, and personalized experiences are an integral part of driving," said Kishor Patil, CEO of KPIT Technologies.
The continuation of existing service standards and ongoing enhancements in offerings were also underscored by Anthony Cliquot.
"Our journey continues with the same passion and purpose. Together, we're better equipped than ever to shape the next evolution of N-Dream. Customers and partners will continue to receive the same high-quality service, with enhanced offerings on the horizon," said Anthony Cliquot.
Swiss tech presence
The acquisition highlights the emergence of Switzerland as a source of innovation in global automotive technology, with a Zurich-based company now playing a role in how millions of people engage with mobility.
