LG Electronics has made a strategic investment in US-based software startup Apex.AI, as the South Korean tech giant expands investments in advanced automotive technologies.

The latest investment is part of an extension to the firm's Series B funding round, according to Apex.AI on Thursday, without disclosing the funding amount. It marks the company's first strategic investor from Korea.

Based in Silicon Valley, Apex.AI develops safety-certified and scalable software for vehicles and mobility systems. The company’s flagship product, the Apex.Grace software framework and development kit, along with other related solutions, helps carmakers, truck manufacturers and suppliers transiting from hardware-centric products to modern software-defined vehicles.

“Adding LG Electronics as a strategic investor is an exciting milestone for Apex.AI as we continue to expand our global partnerships," said Jan Becker, co-founder and CEO of Apex.AI.

"LGE’s investment underscores the critical role of software-defined vehicle technology in shaping the future of mobility and validates Apex.AI’s approach to delivering scalable, production-ready solutions. Beyond investment, we look forward to deepening our collaboration and fostering innovation within the global market.”

The latest funding follows a memorandum of understanding signed between the two companies at the end of last year to team up on the next-generation high-performance computer that integrates advanced driver assistance systems, cockpit and other controllers. This innovative prototype is expected to be showcased in demo vehicles at the CES tech trade show next year.

With this investment, Apex.AI said it will continue to expand its influence across various regions and industries, providing essential software solutions for companies deploying software-defined vehicle technology.

By Ahn Sung-mi (sahn@heraldcorp.com)