How the vehicle cockpit is being redefined in 2026 User experience and brand identity From projected interfaces to AI-driven assistance: at the start of 2026, automakers and suppliers are showing how the vehicle cockpit is evolving into a more software-centric and user-focused environment. Ronja Schmiedchen
The new EX60 brings Volvo’s software plans to life Swedish-American Infotainment & AI Ronja Schmiedchen
Harman expands “Ready” portfolio for in-cabin systems New HMI capabilities move into focus Ronja Schmiedchen
Longstanding engineering practices suddenly feel insufficient The New Realities of Automotive Software Development There are moments in an industry’s evolution when longstanding engineering practices suddenly feel insufficient, even to those who helped define them. Automotive software development is experiencing such a moment today. Andreas Lifvendahl 27 January 2026
A new programming language What decision-makers need to know about Rust As SDVs raise demands for safety and speed, Rust is gaining traction in automotive software. The language promises fewer defects, strong security guarantees and growing relevance for OEM development strategies. Daniela Hoffmann 24 January 2026
Cybersecurity at the edge When charging stations become part of the firewall EV charging points could evolve from simple energy suppliers into active security nodes. Integrated into vehicle security architectures, they may help detect and stop cyberattacks long before threats reach the car or backend systems. Chris Löwer 21 January 2026
Austrian ADAS development Where academia and industry meet in vehicle simulation Graz University of Technology (TU) and Magna have unveiled a new Advanced Driving Simulation Center featuring one of the most sophisticated driving simulators currently in operation. The facility supports research ranging from e-mobility to automated driving. Götz Fuchslocher 3 February 2026
Chinese robotaxi expansion Pony.ai and BAIC BJEV are scaling autonomous taxi fleets Pony.ai and BAIC BJEV are intensifying their cooperation to accelerate the rollout of Level-4 robotaxis. At the centre of the strategy is the Arcfox Alpha T5, designed for large-scale deployment in China and selected international markets. ADT editorial team 19 January 2026
From Tested to Proven The Next Phase of Automotive Software Reliability Today’s automobiles rely on millions of lines of code distributed across embedded systems that control braking, battery management, connectivity, and advanced driver-assistance features. Ensuring the reliability of this software is a critical priority. Caroline Guillaume 16 January 2026
Strategic automotive tech deal Harman strengthens ADAS position with ZF acquisition Harman is acquiring ZF’s ADAS business, reinforcing its position in centralised vehicle architectures and software-defined vehicles. The move expands Harman’s automotive portfolio with compute platforms, sensors and advanced driver assistance software. ADT editorial team 13 January 2026
Interview with Stefan Bratzel, CAM “A new mobility system will emerge” In connected-car innovation, Chinese OEMs are increasingly setting the pace – and the traditional automotive world has much to learn. CAM-Expert Stefan Bratzel explains why autonomous driving is becoming the decisive success factor. ADT editorial team 8 January 2026
4.2 GB/s bandwidth Micron launches Automotive-UFS-4.1 Micron launches Automotive-UFS-4.1 with data rates of up to 4.2 GB/s, targeting the growing performance demands of AI-driven, connected and software-defined vehicle systems. ADT editorial team 22 December 2025
400 kW ultra-fast charging Alpitronic’s HYC400 gains UL certification Alpitronic has secured UL certification for its 400 kW HYC400 fast charger. The approval confirms compliance with stringent safety standards and clears the way for deployment in North America and other important markets. Sabine Synkule 29 January 2026
EVs as active grid elements Who is leading the shift to bidirectional charging? As EVs evolve into flexible home and grid storage units, more manufacturers are adopting bidirectional charging. Here is how leading OEMs approach the technology — and what opportunities it opens for customers and energy systems. ADT editorial team 30 December 2025
Urban mobility technology Parkopedia and Hyundai AutoEver launch indoor navigation solution Parkopedia and Hyundai AutoEver have introduced Europe’s first seamless in-car indoor navigation system. It guides vehicles to precise parking bays or charging points — without GPS. This innovation could simplify mobility in dense city settings. ADT editorial team 27 November 2025
ADAS and HMI Audi sharpens driver assistance and cockpit experience across key models Audi is introducing a comprehensive digital and hardware refresh for several PPE- and PPC-based vehicles. The update focuses on smarter assistance systems, revised user interfaces and expanded in-car entertainment features. ADT editorial team
New entertainment and productivity features Mercedes-Benz updates MBUX Mercedes-Benz is rolling out a fresh update package for its third-generation MBUX system, adding retro games, Dolby Atmos audio and direct Teams call integration. ADT editorial team
Interview with Hanna Lukashevich, Fraunhofer IDMT “Multimodal design must follow a less-is-more philosophy” As audio-driven interfaces expand in next-gen cabins, lighting must stay precise, safe and tightly synchronised. Hanna Lukashevich from Fraunhofer IDMT explains how audio-reactive lighting evolves into robust, multimodal interior systems. Benjamin Müller
