Software Defined Vehicles
Interview with Melanie Sohnemann, Volkswagen
“The strongest enabler is cross-brand governance”
As SDV architectures increase system complexity, modularisation becomes a key lever for cost, scalability and integration. Volkswagen’s Melanie Sohnemann explains how standardised connector systems can enable cross-brand reuse and accelerate SDV rollout.
As Head of the Sub-Department for Wiring Harness Components and Energy Distribution at Volkswagen, Melanie Sohnemann is responsible for the development and integration of connector systems and energy distribution solutions. With a background in mechanical engineering and materials science, she has built extensive experience in quality assurance and technical development within the wiring harness domain.
Since joining Volkswagen in 2013, she has taken on group-wide responsibilities for vehicle cables and connector systems and has held leadership roles in technical development since 2021. Her work focuses on enabling scalable architectures that support Volkswagen’s transition towards the Software-Defined Vehicle.
At the Bordnetzkongress 2026 in Ludwigsburg, she will speak on “Modular Connection Systems from an OEM Perspective”. Ahead of the conference, we had the opportunity to speak with her.
ADT: Looking ahead five years, what will be the single biggest challenge for the wiring harness and EDS industry and why?
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Sohnemann: The biggest challenge will be managing SDV-driven complexity while reducing cost, weight and development time. Zonal architectures and higher functional density will push the limits of today’s wiring and connector concepts.
Which architectural decision being made today will most strongly determine cost, complexity and flexibility over the next decade?
The key decision is the degree of standardisation of connectors and interfaces. A modular toolbox with standardised designs—this choice will dictate future cost, flexibility and time to market.
What does a modular connection system mean for Volkswagen in practice, such as interfaces, part families, assembly processes or diagnostics?
Standardised connector interfaces for highly different needs enable cross-brand reuse and faster ECU integration. In practice, modularity becomes a group-wide enabler for the SDV rollout.
Where is the sweet spot between modularity and packaging constraints, and where does modularity start to cost more than it saves?
Modularity pays off when volumes are high. It becomes costly when modules force oversized housings or unused cavities in very tight installation spaces.
Which elements should be standardised across platforms and which must remain vehicle-specific?
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Standardised elements include standard modules for different pin sizes and interface designs. Vehicle-specific elements include the number of modules per ECU and the arrangement of modules.
What is the biggest organisational enabler for modularity, such as governance, requirements discipline or supplier collaboration?
The strongest enabler is cross-brand governance combined with strict requirements discipline. Governance ensures that modules are reused consistently across all brands and that volume grows to support economic scaling. Requirements discipline ensures that engineering teams do not redesign connectors whenever new ECUs are launched. Supplier collaboration is essential but only effective when internal governance and clear standards already exist. In short, governance defines the rules and discipline ensures they are followed.
Finally, what do you personally hope to take away from the Bordnetzkongress 2026 in Ludwigsburg?
I hope to leave the congress with fresh ideas and practical inspiration that help us accelerate our harness component development and strengthen collaboration across the industry.
