Google opens AI centre in Berlin Google has opened a new AI centre in Berlin and plans to invest €5.5 billion in Germany. The new hub aims to connect research, politics and industry – and could also have far-reaching implications for the country’s automotive sector. 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
What to expect at the Automotive Software Strategies Conference 2026 On 19 and 20 May 2026, the Automotive Software Strategies Conference returns to Munich. Industry experts from OEMs, suppliers and technology partners will examine how SDVs, AI-driven development and new software architectures are reshaping the automotive industry. Benjamin Müller
Lamborghini expands its gaming ecosystem Lamborghini expands its gaming ecosystem by launching the Fast ForWorld experience in Fortnite, creating an immersive branded environment aimed at younger audiences. The initiative marks a new stage in the OEM’s digital engagement strategy. Benjamin Müller
Mercedes GLE and GLS receive Superscreen and new software The new electric Mercedes GLC is currently stealing the spotlight. But GLE and GLS are not stepping aside just yet. The large SUVs are receiving a major update with a redesigned cockpit, new software and revised combustion engines. Thomas Geiger
Volvo rolls out OTA update for 2.5 million vehicles Volvo is preparing its largest over-the-air update to date: around 2.5 million vehicles will receive an updated user interface with faster access to navigation, media and driving modes. The update also prepares vehicles for new AI-based functions. Benjamin Müller
What to expect at the 360°UX Mobility Conference 2026 On 13 May 2026 in Munich, the 360°UX Mobility Conference brings together OEMs, suppliers and UX experts to explore how AI, smart ecosystems and cross-domain collaboration are redefining automotive user experience across the entire customer journey. Benjamin Müller
“AI model inputs can be tagged to VSS signal names upfront” Scaling edge AI across vehicle platforms remains a complex challenge. From compute constraints and legacy architectures to abstraction and toolchains, Steve Stoddard, Principal Product Manager AI at Sonatus, explains where scalability breaks down and what OEMs must prioritise next. Benjamin Müller
“AI makes diligence affordable” AI-driven tools are reshaping embedded automotive development – not by replacing engineers, but by accelerating testing, validation and review workflows. Felix Martin, Research Engineer at Tasking, explains where AI already adds value and where safety-critical limits remain. Benjamin Müller
“The system has to be accurate and hyper-continuously available” As vehicles become increasingly software-defined and automated functions demand continuous reliability, localisation systems face new expectations for resilience and continuity. In this interview, Brett Harrison, Co-Founder and President of Tern, explains why legacy positioning concepts are no longer sufficient. Benjamin Müller
What to expect at the Automotive Computing Conference 2026 On 24 and 25 March 2026, the Automotive Computing Conference returns to Detroit. Industry experts from OEMs, suppliers and technology partners will discuss how SDVs, AI, virtualisation and new computing architectures are reshaping the automotive industry. Benjamin Müller
Trusted Tech Alliance aims to set standards for digital ecosystems The newly founded Trusted Tech Alliance (TTA) seeks to establish common principles for transparency, security and responsible technology development. For an increasingly digital automotive industry, the initiative could become strategically significant. 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
Why in-car gaming is more than entertainment As 2026 unfolds, in-car gaming is emerging as a proving ground for SDVs, exposing which OEMs can translate digital architecture into tangible user experiences. This overview examines how different manufacturers approach gaming as a platform feature, cloud service or architectural showcase. Ronja Schmiedchen
Why vehicle connectivity is often expensive and opaque Connectivity comes at a price. Drivers who use connected services in their cars are increasingly being charged, often without clear information on costs, durations or long-term implications. Holger Holzer
Are quantum computers the future of the automotive industry? Quantum computing promises a major leap forward for industry and science when it comes to solving highly complex problems. But how do quantum computers actually work – and how could they advance the automotive industry in practice? Götz Fuchslocher
What to expect at the ChargeTec Conference 2026 On 28 and 29 April 2026, the ChargeTec Conference returns to Munich. Across a broad range of technical, regulatory and operational topics, the event examines how charging technology and infrastructure must evolve to support the next phase of electric mobility. Benjamin Müller
Why 2026 could mark a turning point for software-defined vehicles 2026 will be a reality check for software-defined vehicles. Martin Schleicher, Eclipse SDV Ambassador, sees the industry at a turning point: success will no longer be defined by vision, but by the ability to deliver software reliably. Dr. Martin Large
What to expect at the Mobility + AI Conference 2026 On 14 and 15 April 2026, the Mobility + AI Conference takes place in Munich. Across eight core themes, the event explores the intersection of technology, safety and regulation – from AI-driven automated driving and robotaxis to autonomous logistics, validation, cybersecurity and SDV architectures. Benjamin Müller
How far does the new S-Class software update go? Mercedes-Benz has updated the S-Class with a clear focus on software. MB.OS, over-the-air updates and AI-based functions are intended to modernise the flagship. The decisive question is how far this transformation goes beyond incremental digital refinement. Ronja Schmiedchen
Hamburg and Free Now by Lyft launch robotaxi pilot Hamburg is taking a first step towards integrating autonomous taxis into its urban transport system. Together with Free Now by Lyft, northern Germany’s largest city is launching a pilot project designed to test Level-4 robotaxis under real-world conditions. Dr. Martin Large
How the vehicle cockpit is being redefined in 2026 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 With the EX60, Volvo brings its vision of software-defined mobility onto the road for the first time. The all-electric SUV combines a central computing architecture, AI-powered infotainment and over-the-air updates in a production vehicle. Ronja Schmiedchen
Harman expands “Ready” portfolio for in-cabin systems Harman is extending its “Ready” portfolio with new software, audio, display and safety solutions for the vehicle interior. The aim is to simplify integration, reduce development effort and support digital in-cabin functions over the vehicle lifecycle. Ronja Schmiedchen
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
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
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
VDA and Eclipse Foundation expand SDV software ecosystem The Eclipse Foundation and Germany’s automotive industry association VDA are significantly expanding their open-source ecosystem for SDVs. Their S-CORE initiative aims to create a shared software foundation that reduces development effort and shortens time to market. ADT editorial team
Hyundai Mobis and Qualcomm partner on SDV platforms Hyundai Mobis and Qualcomm have announced a strategic collaboration aimed at developing future-ready SDV architectures and advanced driver assistance systems. The partnership targets scalable solutions for fast-growing automotive markets. ADT editorial team
How Nvidia is turning AI into road-ready autonomy Nvidia is moving beyond chips and simulations to position itself as a central force in autonomous mobility. A robotaxi service is planned for 2027, while passenger vehicles equipped with the platform are expected to follow from 2028. ADT editorial team
“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
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
How Stellantis and Bolt are shaping Europe’s robotaxi ambitions Stellantis and Bolt plan to begin testing Level-4 autonomous vehicles in Europe from 2026, with a long-term goal of deploying tens of thousands of robotaxis. Their initiative reflects a broader acceleration of autonomous mobility projects across the continent. ADT editorial team
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
Mercedes, Momenta and Lumo launch robotaxi fleet in Abu Dhabi Mercedes-Benz is teaming up with Chinese autonomous driving specialist Momenta and UAE taxi operator Lumo to deploy a luxury robotaxi service in Abu Dhabi. The Level-4 fleet will be based on the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and is set to begin operations next year. Benjamin Müller
Infineon and Lenovo expand SDV computing partnership Infineon and Lenovo are expanding their collaboration to support high-performance computing platforms for software-defined vehicles. The joint approach targets autonomous driving from Level 2 to Level 4. Benjamin Müller
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
“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
Complete radar solutions on a chip Alongside the camera, radar is the fundamental sensor technology for ADAS and automated driving. However, radar offers many additional possibilities, and with Antenna in Package (AiP), there is a complete radar solution in a chip package. Peter Wiese
Nvidia unveils its first reasoning AI for AVs Nvidia has introduced Alpamayo-R1, an open reasoning model designed for autonomous vehicles. It aims to give AV systems greater transparency and predictability, paving the way for safer and more accountable Level-4 automation. ADT editorial team
“Continuous pipelines have become business-critical” As the shift toward software-defined mobility accelerates, OEMs face rising pressure across computing architectures, supply chains, and organizational models. Heinz Schmitz from GreenRock explains where the industry stands – and what companies must fix to keep pace. Benjamin Müller
VW gains full end-to-end development capability in China Volkswagen has expanded its Hefei operations into a full development hub, enabling the German company to design, test and validate the next generation of connected vehicles entirely within China — and at the speed the local market demands. ADT editorial team
How IT solutions help carmakers accelerate transformation From connected factories to cloud-driven vehicle development: digital tools and services have become a foundational element of the automotive industry. Here’s how new IT solutions help manufacturers boost efficiency, reduce risks and accelerate innovation. ADT editorial team
Sponsored “Engineering and IT need to communicate effectively to successfully manage the shift” In this interview, Richard Rovner and Udo Gohier explain how MathWorks supports automakers and suppliers in successfully navigating the cultural and technological transformation toward the Software-Defined Vehicle. Yannick Tiedemann
“Chiplet-based designs enable scalability and performance” As SDV development accelerates worldwide, regional strategies diverge sharply. Hanno Wolff from Synopsys explains how global ecosystems, semiconductor innovation, and early co-design shape the next generation of automotive computing. Benjamin Müller
Polestar plans full rollout of Google Gemini across its line-up Polestar and Google have unveiled the new Gemini AI assistant inside the Polestar 5. The system promises more natural in-car conversations and will be introduced step by step across all Polestar models from 2026 onwards. ADT editorial team
Lidar Sensors in Autonomous Driving As vehicles become more automated, they must sense and interpret the world with extraordinary precision. Lidar has emerged as one of the most capable tools for this task. This article explores the technology and its growing importance. ADT editorial team
VW and Rivian advance zonal SDV architecture Volkswagen and Rivian report major progress on their new zonal SDV architecture. First reference vehicles are ready for winter testing in 2026, with the ID.Every1 set to launch in 2027 as the first model using the platform. ADT editorial team
Customer benefit must be the focus On the journey from hardware-centred vehicles to software-defined mobility solutions, companies need not only the right technology but also a culture of exchange on an equal footing. Götz Fuchslocher
IT and engineering must speak the same language Development and IT must collaborate more closely than ever on software-defined vehicles. External partners and their expertise are equally important aspects, experts emphasise at the automotiveIT car.summit. Götz Fuchslocher
“Driving simulators have emerged as indispensable development tools” As vehicles become more software-defined, advanced virtualization and driver-in-the-loop simulation are transforming how new functions are developed and validated. BMW’s Dr Chantal Himmels and Robert Siwy discuss how human-centered simulation accelerates innovation and ensures safety. Benjamin Müller
Navigating the software-defined vehicle revolution The software-defined vehicle (SDV) is transforming how the automotive industry creates value. OEMs and suppliers must adapt their strategies and development processes to meet new demands for quality, safety, and security. Changjiang Duan Rafael Taubinger
“We see a strong trend toward open-source solutions” As budgets tighten across the automotive industry, reaching “SDV Level 5” requires smarter architectures, selective transformation, and collaboration. Dr Moritz Neukirchner of Elektrobit explains how this can be achieved. Benjamin Müller
Pony.ai launches affordable Gen-7 robotaxis Pony.ai has commenced operations of its Gen-7 robotaxis in China. According to the company, the autonomous driving kit of this generation is 70 percent cheaper than before - a step intended to advance the scaling of driverless mobility. Martin Large
“We focus on enabling modular and scalable continuous integration” Continuous integration, SIL/HIL continuity, and cloud-native testing are key to mastering SDV development. Stefan Walter from dSPACE explains how these elements enable faster, more reliable automotive validation. Benjamin Müller
“We need leading edge solutions, which form the heart of the car” Chiplet architectures are redefining the automotive industry. Imec’s Bart Placklé explains how modular design, interoperability, and ecosystem collaboration can help Europe regain leadership in high-performance vehicle computing. Benjamin Müller
“Wouldn’t it be good if someone designed a dedicated embedded processor?” Precise timing is becoming the make-or-break factor for embedded software. Peter Gliwa, CEO of GLIWA, explains why developers must close the gap between virtual and real-world behavior – and why future ECUs need processors truly built for determinism. Benjamin Müller
What to expect at the Automotive Computing Conference 2025 At the Automotive Computing Conference 2025 in Munich from 13 to 14 November, innovation and mobility come together. Experts share insights on how AI, high performance computing (HPC), and chiplets are transforming the automotive world. Dr. Martin Large
How Valeo shapes the light of the future For Valeo, light is much more than safety - it is communication, design, and software all at once. In Bobigny, France, the supplier develops technologies that redefine vehicle lighting. Timo Gilgen
IT as a strategic lever for change in the automotive industry At the automotiveIT Congress 2025, CIOs of leading automotive companies demonstrated how IT becomes a strategic lever. Between cloud, AI, and mergers, new paths are revealed - but how does transformation truly succeed under uncertainty? Dr. Martin Large
Who will win the race for wireless standards for the connected car? The connected car only really makes sense if it also communicates with its surroundings. A wireless standard is needed for this. With ITS-G5 and C-V2X, two promising candidates are at the starting line. But which one will win the race? Chris Löwer
How blockchain ensures greater cyber resilience Although it has become quiet around them, blockchain technologies in the automotive industry continue to offer significant potential - especially when it comes to cybersecurity in future generations of connected vehicles. Chris Löwer
How The Autonomous 2025 advances autonomous vehicles In Vienna, the "The Autonomous Main Event 2025" was a key conference on the future of safe autonomous systems. The focus was on integration and AI, and where there are further opportunities for the automotive industry. Alfred Vollmer
“Higher connector volumes support the viability of multiple suppliers” Zonal architectures, rising voltages, and automated harness assembly are reshaping vehicle E/E systems. In this interview, USCAR’s EWCAP Manager Chris Dillon explains how connector standards, digitalisation, and cross-industry alignment drive the future of wire harness design. Benjamin Müller
What’s ahead at the Automotive Wire Harness & EDS Conference 2025? On 20-21 October 2025, the Automotive Wire Harness & EDS Conference returns to Detroit, bringing together leading experts, OEMs, Tier-1s, and technology providers to discuss the latest trends, standards, and innovations in wiring harness and EDS systems. What awaits you at this year’s event? Benjamin Müller
“The complexity of the harness is reduced, which leads to better manufacturability” How can OEMs and suppliers master the shift to zonal architectures, digital twins, and automation in wire harness design? Vector’s Lars Wunderlich outlines the key challenges and explains why a holistic approach is crucial. Benjamin Müller
Valeo and Qualcomm expand teamwork in SDV Valeo and Qualcomm are expanding their long-standing collaboration on driver assistance systems and automated driving. A pre-configured ADAS/AD platform is intended to simplify vehicle implementation and accelerate market launch. Götz Fuchslocher
How advanced are autonomous driving systems really? Autonomous driving between theory and practice - at the IAA Mobility 2025, OEMs, suppliers, and research institutions showcase the progress of driver assistance systems. Learn more about the current ADAS technologies in our overview. Benjamin Müller
“Regulatory compliance is becoming a critical design constraint” Thermal loads, aggressive coolants, and strict regulations are pushing HV connector seals to their limits. At Starlim, Leopold Pühringer develops materials and test methods to keep wire harness systems reliable under these extremes – a topic he explores in our interview. Benjamin Müller
How Busbars in Charging Infrastructure Increase EV Charging Performance A disadvantage of electric cars is still the charging time. The integration of busbars in charging infrastructures for electric vehicles offers great potential to increase this charging performance. However, some challenges need to be addressed. Barbara Stumpp
Car Batteries: What Flame Retardants Can and Cannot Do Do flame retardants in car batteries really protect against fires - or do they cause more harm than they prevent? A publication questions their effectiveness and even sees risks. We asked a manufacturer. Dr. Martin Large
Cupra's Flagship Tavascan in Practical Test A long-distance drive shows: The Cupra Tavascan VZ drives confidently, thinks ahead - and sounds better than many competitors. But not everything runs smoothly in the digital everyday life. Where does it shine, where does Cupra need to improve? Timo Gilgen
China Speed in the Automotive Industry – How Can We Keep Up? China is redefining the pace of development in the automotive industry. AEK 2025 shows the structures, technologies, and strategies Chinese manufacturers are using to set standards in SDV and the implications for Europe. Sabine Synkule
The Future of Artificial Intelligence in the Automotive Industry At the AUTOMOBIL-ELEKTRONIK Kongress 2025, AI was one of the central topics and appeared in many forms: as a driver of technical innovation, as a risk, and as a key to new vehicle concepts. What the speakers said about the topic. Dr. Martin Large
How Vehicle Connectivity Becomes a Business Model Who pays for connectivity in the connected car? OEMs are striving for an appropriate and profitable answer. Providing a solid subscription model with all its associated complexities is anything but simple. Nicole Ahner
Is AI a Curse or a Blessing for Cybersecurity? While AI offers potential for risk detection, it also increases the range of cyber threats. We explain why the connected car is so vulnerable to digital attacks and whether AI is more of an opportunity or a risk for cybersecurity. Ronja Schmiedchen
AEK 2025: SDV, AI & Mega-Alliances in Focus The AUTOMOBIL-ELEKTRONIK Kongress 2025 has highlighted key challenges and future topics of the automotive industry – from AI to SDV to new partnerships. Here are five topics that shaped the event. Dr. Martin Large
“God’s Eye” by BYD in Practical Test BYD aims to revolutionise autonomous driving with its God’s Eye technology. Three performance levels, AI-supported scenario recognition, and impressive driving performance in the test show: The Chinese system is convincing - but when will it be available in Europe? Wolfgang Gomoll
Rheinmetall Charging Kerb Ready for Regular Operation After just over a year, Rheinmetall's charging kerb pilot project in Cologne has been successfully completed, proving the market readiness of the solution: Technical availability during the test period was over 99%, and users consistently gave positive feedback. Dr. Martin Large
What China's GB 38031-2025 Means for EV Batteries With GB 38031-2025, China aims to usher in a new era of battery safety: "no fire, no explosion" is the motto. What initially sounds like a technical detail could fundamentally change the global EV market. Dr. Martin Large
“The cell-to-pack (CTP) approach is gaining traction” Tesla and BYD set the pace in cell innovation. In this interview, Jonas Gorsch – a speaker at the Automotive Battery Conference 2025 – reveals what European developers must learn to scale next-gen battery production. Benjamin Müller
“The new iDrive system epitomizes the concept of a software-defined vehicle” At AEK 2025, Stephan Durach presented BMW’s Panoramic iDrive. In this interview, he explains how shy-tech controls, head-up projection, and a customizable interface redefine human-machine interaction in the software-defined cockpit. Benjamin Müller
Live Ticker for the Automobil-Elektronik Kongress 2025 (AEK) On 24th and 25th June, the Automobil-Elektronik Kongress 2025 took place in Ludwigsburg. Industry decision-makers discussed developments in automotive electronics, SDV, and AI. Here you’ll find a chronological overview of what happened. ADT editorial team
How Does Software Define the Car of the Future? Joachim Mathes, CTO at Valeo, emphasises the need to transform the automotive industry at the 28th AUTOMOBIL ELEKTRONIK Congress. He calls for the development of sustainable SDVs that will remain relevant in 20 years. Martin Probst
Hands-free on the Autobahn in the BMW i7 As the first car manufacturer, BMW combines its Level 2+ hands-free function up to 135 km/h and the Personal Pilot at Level 3 in the 7 Series. Our practical test shows whether the systems deliver what they promise. The infotainment is also examined in detail. Timo Gilgen
The Development of the Battery Raw Materials Market The European industry remains too dependent on risky imports from abroad for battery materials. This is shown by a recent analysis, which is exclusively available to Automobil Produktion. Werner Beutnagel
These are the Future Platforms of Car Manufacturers Never before has a platform strategy been so important and at the same time so easy to implement as with the electric car. But what new modular systems are German manufacturers planning and when will they hit the market? We summarise. Thomas Geiger
