Wire Harness Industry: Ready for the Next Phase? The Bordnetzkongress 2026 highlighted how strongly automation, digitalisation and standardisation are reshaping the industry. Experts gathered at the Reithaus Ludwigsburg to discuss the future of the wiring harness. Dr. Martin Large
“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. Benjamin Müller
“Ensuring data trustworthiness involves three key aspects” As vehicle architectures grow more complex and energy-hungry, power distribution is becoming a strategic challenge. Martin Baumann, Development Engineer at BMW, explains how data-driven methods are changing electronic power distributor design. Benjamin Müller
“A digital twin can predict current-related failure modes very well” As rising system complexity challenges validation in automotive development, digital twins are becoming a key enabler. Thiruvenkata Babuji Baskaran, Molex, explains how virtual validation transforms connector design and testing. Benjamin Müller
“Standardised interfaces can reduce complexity” As electrification increases current loads and complexity in vehicle power distribution, reliable high-current connections become critical for safety and lifecycle cost. Dr. Svenja Müller and Dr. Marcella Oberst from TE Connectivity explain design rules, joining strategies and the new VDI 2231 guideline. Benjamin Müller
“Welding aluminium requires experience and tight process controls” How can aluminium be used consistently in LV and HV contact systems without compromising reliability? One Mobility’s Thomas Lorenz explains where aluminium already wins – and where engineering discipline remains critical. Benjamin Müller
What to expect at the Bordnetzkongress 2026 On 5–6 May 2026 in Ludwigsburg, the Bordnetzkongress (Automotive Wire Harness & EDS Conference) brings together OEMs, suppliers and industry experts to address next-generation EDS architectures, high-voltage safety, automated harness production and scalable vehicle platforms. Benjamin Müller
What challenges will the wiring harness industry face over the next five years? Which challenges will shape the wiring harness and EDS industry most strongly over the next five years? Four experts – all speakers at the 2026 Bordnetzkongress in Germany – provide surprisingly different answers. Benjamin Müller
This was the 13th Conference Bordnetze im Automobil The 13th Conference Bordnetze im Automobil (Automotive Wire Harness & EDS 2025) brought the industry back to Ludwigsburg. International industry experts gathered in the tranquil town near Stuttgart to explore the latest innovations in vehicle wiring systems, E/E architectures, and Software-Defined Vehicles. Benjamin Müller
