The Redmond, Wash.-based software company today will announce a massive new investment in its automotive business unit and tapped a Detroit native to lead the charge.

Microsoft works closely with a number of car companies to bring computer connectivity and infotainment to the automobile. The most visible fruit of those efforts is Sync, the product of Microsoft’s collaboration with Ford Motor Co. that debuted last year and has already given the Dearborn automaker a much-needed boost with younger car buyers. It allows motorists to control their cell phones, music players and navigation systems with voice commands.

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