Mercedes-Benz and Volvo deepen Nvidia partnerships Volvo and Mercedes-Benz are expanding their work with Nvidia as both carmakers push towards more advanced automated driving. The partnerships combine AI software, central computing and safety architectures, but each manufacturer is integrating the technology in a different way. Ronja Schmiedchen
“AI-defined vehicles separate intent from implementation” Cockpits are becoming more intelligent, contextual and personalised as assistants, displays and driver interfaces converge. Mercedes-Benz AI specialist Shivam Bahedia explains what it takes to bring generative AI into production vehicles. Benjamin Müller
Mercedes-Benz puts AI at the heart of vehicle development Mercedes-Benz is building PLM.AI as a digital backbone for vehicle development. Together with Contact Software and Siemens, the OEM is linking engineering, production and aftersales, while AI agents analyse complex trade-offs across functions and could cut development times by up to 30 per cent. Benjamin Müller
“Zonal architectures can significantly reduce harness complexity” Zonal architectures promise leaner wiring, but they also raise the stakes for power distribution and fault handling. Manoj Singh of Forvia Hella explains what fail-operational systems must deliver in future vehicles. Benjamin Müller
“Active cooling becomes relevant when thermal limits constrain performance” Rising power demand is forcing the wire harness industry to rethink weight, packaging and thermal limits. Markus Leitner, Director Group Product Management & Business Development at GG Group, explains why system-level integration and active cooling are moving into focus. Benjamin Müller
Porsche creates technology unit for software and engineering Porsche Engineering and Porsche Digital will operate as Porsche Technologies from the second quarter of 2027. The new unit will combine vehicle development, software and AI, with around 2,700 employees across nine countries worldwide, serving Porsche and external customers. Benjamin Müller
“Most city bus routes can be electrified without opportunity charging” For electric city buses, battery life, charging infrastructure and operational flexibility are becoming key economic factors. Fabian Schöffel of MAN Truck & Bus explains why larger batteries and overnight charging are becoming key factors. Benjamin Müller
“Bamboo injection-moulding scrap can be reused up to five times” After another summer of heat records, the reminder is hard to miss: the wire harness industry needs to reduce its CO2 emissions. Dr Rajkiran Tiwari of YTC America explains where PP/bamboo eco-composites can replace conventional PP materials and what limits remain. Benjamin Müller
How BMW is preparing Steyr for the iX5 Hydrogen BMW is preparing its Austrian Steyr plant for series production of the iX5 Hydrogen from 2028. On former V8 production space, fuel-cell manufacturing is being integrated into a site already producing petrol, diesel and electric powertrains. Andrea Hoffmann-Topp
Automotive Wire Harness Tech Navigator The wiring harness increasingly determines whether new vehicle architectures work technically, scale economically and remain manageable in series production. Our free-to-download Tech Navigator explains why wiring harnesses, connector systems, power distribution and automation are becoming strategic topics for OEMs and suppliers. Dr. Martin Large
“Agentic AI should not reduce the validation threshold” E/E architectures are becoming more complex as development cycles shrink. Molex’s Sushil Kumar Singh explains how digital twins, virtual validation and agentic AI could move connector validation upstream. Benjamin Müller
Germany’s AI market grows by nearly 50% in 2026 Germany’s AI market is expanding rapidly as companies move from pilots to productive use. Bitkom expects spending on AI software, services and hardware to rise 48% to €28.7 billion in 2026, with generative AI driving much of the growth. Benjamin Müller
“There is no one-size-fits-all model” As E/E architectures consolidate, ECU development must move earlier into virtual environments. STMicroelectronics expert Dr Florian Baumann explains where cloud-based MCU prototyping helps and where physical validation remains essential. Benjamin Müller
Lucid and Bolt target 25,000 Level 4 robotaxis in Europe Europe’s robotaxi market is moving towards larger fleets and more integrated operating models. Lucid and Bolt plan at least 25,000 Level 4 vehicles based on Lucid’s future Midsize platform, with NVIDIA Hyperion as the technical foundation and Bolt taking charge of fleet operations. Benjamin Müller
Forvia Hella develops mirrorless 3D AR head-up display Head-up displays are moving from flat graphics towards spatial interfaces, while packaging remains a key constraint. Forvia Hella and Distance Technologies are developing a mirrorless 3D AR display that places navigation and driving cues into the real-world view with less cockpit installation space. Ronja Schmiedchen
Lidl and Einride bring Level 4 into retail logistics Lidl and Einride are testing a cabless Level 4 electric truck in German retail logistics. The four-month pilot links a distribution centre with a nearby store and explores how autonomous deliveries could be scaled across Lidl’s network. Benjamin Müller
BMW expands image data collection across Europe Real-world driving data is becoming a key input for developing and validating increasingly complex driver-assistance functions. BMW is expanding event-triggered image and sensor collection from consenting customer vehicles in Europe to feed machine-learning development. Ronja Schmiedchen
“Silicone gaskets offer excellent compression set resistance” As EV packs become more integrated, fire protection must be designed around cells, venting and production. Dow Automotive Application Scientist Roman Vanecek explains how silicone materials support safer battery systems Benjamin Müller
Xpeng brings Google Maps to vehicles outside China Xpeng is bringing Google Maps into vehicles sold outside China. The integration keeps the carmaker’s own interface while adding live traffic data, EV route planning and map support for selected driver-assistance functions. Benjamin Müller
OTA updates raise new software approval questions A survey by German vehicle inspection and testing organisation Dekra and Ipsos shows growing driver interest in over-the-air updates. Owners value fewer workshop visits, but Dekra says software changes still need independent approval and inspection. Holger Holzer
“Modular tooling increases machine adaptability” Wire harness makers face growing pressure to automate production as vehicle architectures become more complex. Boming Zhu of Linquan Technology explains where design and manufacturing must evolve to close the gap. Benjamin Müller
Waymo and Zoox expand their US robotaxi presence The competition for autonomous ride-hailing is gaining speed in the US. Waymo is opening its robotaxi services in Denver, San Diego and Tampa to initial passengers, while Zoox is expanding its test areas. The United States remains a key pace-setter in the robotaxi market. Benjamin Müller
How automotive computing will shape the next vehicle generation SDVs remain an ambition without the right hardware. At AEK 2026, the focus shifted to the computing foundations of the next vehicle generation – from SoCs and chiplets to edge AI, Ethernet and RISC-V, and to the balance between central performance and distributed control. Dr. Martin Large
“Human-state data will become as strategic as vehicle telemetry” The more vehicles rely on AI and shared control, the more critical the driver’s actual cognitive state becomes. Niall Berkery, CEO and co-founder of Neumo, explains why cognitive-state sensing could become a key input for safer automation. Benjamin Müller
Volvo EX60 review: software and UX find new clarity Volvo’s EX60 is the electric counterpart to its best-selling XC60 and the first model on the dedicated SPA3 platform. A drive around Hamburg shows how central computing, Pilot Assist, Gemini and a cleaner cockpit come together in daily use – and where the software still needs work. Timo Gilgen
“Software-defined control is the key technology” Interior lighting is becoming a functional layer of the vehicle architecture, expected to support safety, orientation and brand differentiation despite tight cost and packaging limits. Michael Bantel of Hella explains what will make that scalable. Benjamin Müller
How researchers want to cut AI’s energy demand As AI moves deeper into vehicles, production and industrial software, its energy demand is becoming a strategic issue. Researchers are developing smaller models and new architectures, while quantum computing could one day make training more efficient. Benjamin Müller
“The biggest challenges arise from platform heterogeneity” Why do SDV programmes struggle to translate ambition into efficient ECU development? Elektrobit’s Jan Rüdiger explains how right-sized workflows and integration-as-code can reduce complexity and improve scalability. Benjamin Müller
Schaeffler and CATL target European EV platforms Schaeffler and CATL are expanding their e-mobility cooperation to develop battery management systems and integrated PowerBox solutions for European carmakers. The agreement combines Schaeffler’s system integration with CATL’s battery scale and cell expertise. Benjamin Müller
How E/E architecture transformation is reshaping the automotive industry The Automotive Wire Harness & EDS Conference 2026 returns to Detroit on 20–21 October. The focus will be on zonal E/E architectures, high-voltage systems, optical connectivity, AI-supported engineering, 3D electrical design and manufacturing automation. Benjamin Müller
How Geely plans to share road safety data in Europe Geely is joining Europe’s Data for Road Safety ecosystem as the first Chinese carmaker in the initiative. The move will allow anonymised hazard data to be shared in real time with infrastructure, emergency services and connected vehicles, while supporting European connected-safety functions. Benjamin Müller
How BMW is using CodeRabbit to govern software development BMW i Ventures is backing CodeRabbit as the carmaker expands its use of AI-assisted code reviews. More than 1,000 BMW software developers already use the platform to check vehicle software, strengthen governance and manage code generated by humans and AI agents more safely at scale. Benjamin Müller
How Power Integrations brings GaN into high-voltage power Power Integrations has extended its PowiGaN technology to 2200 V. The new voltage class is designed to support denser and more efficient power architectures for electric vehicles, AI data centres, solar inverters and HVDC infrastructure. Nicole Ahner
How Pony.ai and Uber plan to scale Robotaxis in Europe Pony.ai and Uber plan to expand their European Robotaxi partnership beyond Zagreb, with more than 2,000 Level 4 vehicles planned for further cities. The model divides technology, platform access and fleet operation between specialised partners and local market operators. Ronja Schmiedchen
What the EU’s new ADDW mandate means for drivers The EU’s new Advanced Driver Distraction Warning rules apply to new cars across the bloc. The systems monitor whether drivers are looking away from the road, raising a key question alongside their safety role: how is in-cabin camera data processed, protected and who, if anyone, can access it? Ulrich Hottelet
Magnus Östberg to leave Mercedes-Benz Magnus Östberg will leave Mercedes-Benz after five years as Chief Software Officer. The Swedish executive built the OEM’s software organisation, led MB.OS and helped bring the CLA as Mercedes-Benz’s first software-defined vehicle into series production. Pascal Nagel
Uber and Wayve secure first robotaxi permit for London Uber and Wayve have secured approval to carry selected passengers in automated vehicles in London. The pilot will start with safety drivers and modified Ford Mustang Mach-E cars, marking another step towards commercial robotaxi services in the UK. Benjamin Müller
Zoox wins approval to charge for driverless rides Zoox has secured a US exemption allowing it to charge passengers for rides in its purpose-built robotaxis. Paid services are due to begin in Las Vegas as the Amazon subsidiary moves from free trials towards commercial scale and intensifies competition with Waymo and Tesla. Benjamin Müller
Joynext and Nextchip develop ADAS platforms Joynext and Nextchip are developing integrated ADAS solutions for global vehicle programmes. Their partnership combines the APACHE6 AI SoC with camera systems, software and system integration, while targeting scalable and cost-efficient platforms for future vehicle architectures. Nicole Ahner
GM improves infotainment controls in selected Cadillac models General Motors is updating selected Cadillac models with simpler media controls, profile-linked seat settings, clearer charging menus and new OTA functions. A redesigned home screen will follow. Ronja Schmiedchen
ZF Lifetec develops seat belt with infrared signature ZF Lifetec has integrated an infrared signature into seat belt webbing so in-cabin cameras can distinguish it from clothing, skin and seat surfaces. The technology is intended to detect incorrect belt routing more precisely and provide better input for occupant safety systems. Ronja Schmiedchen
Honda and Nissan consider shared SDV operating system Honda and Nissan are considering a shared operating system for future SDVs. The proposed platform would build on Nissan technology and could cut development effort, simplify model integration and speed up software functions across both manufacturers. Benjamin Müller
What to expect at the Automotive Battery Conference 2026 The Automotive Battery Conference returns to Munich on 21 and 22 October 2026. In an environment shaped by technological and regulatory change, the event offers the industry guidance and a view of the battery of the future. Benjamin Müller
Hyundai adds streaming and Wi-Fi packages to selected EVs Hyundai is adding two digital entertainment packages to selected electric models, bringing video streaming, news, games and children’s content to the central display. A second tier also includes an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot, while access is booked through the Bluelink Store. Ronja Schmiedchen
ZVEI calls for a European alliance on vehicle electronics Europe’s automotive suppliers want common foundations for the next generation of vehicle electronics. Germany’s electrical and digital industry association ZVEI proposes standardised interfaces, centralised computing and closer cooperation on semiconductors and software. Benjamin Müller Jessica Mouchegh
“A scalable software platform starts with hardware agnosticism” As vehicles become more software-defined, edge intelligence is turning E/E architecture into a strategic challenge. Alexandre Corjon of Sonatus explains how automakers can integrate Edge AI while keeping vehicle platforms scalable and maintainable. Benjamin Müller
How Central Compute, Chiplets, and Open Toolchains Enable the SDV Software-defined vehicles are increasing demands on automotive computing. Central compute, chiplet-based scalability, and open toolchains provide a practical foundation for performance growth, software reuse, and long-term platform development. Peter Bechberger
Volkswagen’s Moia expands its service in Hamburg Selected passengers in Hamburg can now book rides in self-driving ID. Buzz vehicles through the Moia app. The passenger trial marks the move from closed testing to public operation and examines how autonomous on-demand transport can complement buses and trains. Dr. Martin Large
“With IMSE, trim, electronics, lighting, sensing and HMI become one part” As smart interiors move towards functional, illuminated surfaces, integration is becoming a production challenge. Dr Dominique Heilborn of TactoTek explains how IMSE brings trim, electronics, lighting, sensing and HMI together. Benjamin Müller
EU tariffs are bringing electric car production to Europe EU tariffs are helping shift electric car production towards Europe and reduce the share of China-built vehicles. The measures are also creating fresh opportunities to expand local battery manufacturing, strengthen supply chains and retain more industrial value in the region. Benjamin Müller
Mercedes-Benz CIO Katrin Lehmann to leave in September Katrin Lehmann will leave Mercedes-Benz after only two years as CIO. Her exit comes as the Stuttgart-based carmaker is still modernising its IT organisation, scaling AI tools and reorganising enterprise technology under a new board structure that links people, processes and data. Yannick Tiedemann
“Artists are not constrained by engineering processes” Vehicle interiors are becoming more digital, sensory and experience-driven. Artist and creative director Yves Peitzner brings a deliberately different perspective to automotive lighting – connecting art, AI, interaction design and spatial installation. Benjamin Müller
Why automotive lighting is becoming intelligent architecture Automotive lighting has long since moved far beyond illumination. At ALC 2026, industry experts showed how user experience, smart surfaces, digital ecosystems and E/E architectures are reshaping the field – and what it takes to make next-level concepts work in practice. Benjamin Müller
“The SDV fundamentally changes the customer relationship” Software-defined vehicles are entering large-scale production, shifting the focus from development to real-world performance. Magnus Östberg, CSO at Mercedes-Benz, explains how MB.OS, data and open source shape the next phase. Pascal Nagel
AEK 2026: Why execution now matters more than strategy The automotive industry has defined its technological direction. Now comes the harder part: delivering at scale. AEK 2026 showed why SDVs, AI, chiplets and China-Speed are turning execution into the decisive competitive factor. Dr. Martin Large
Is vehicle-to-grid finally becoming a European business case? Volkswagen, Valeo and Nissan are pushing bidirectional charging beyond pilots in Europe. Their latest moves show how EVs could become flexible energy assets for homes, grids and drivers, while opening new revenue models around vehicle-to-grid services and smarter charging ecosystems. Benjamin Müller
How Agentic AI Is Changing Vehicle Development Agentic AI could speed up requirements, testing, validation and SDV workflows. But automotive experts warn that without APIs, virtual ECUs, clean data and human expertise, the hype will not scale. Dr. Martin Large
Renault and Thales connect tactical mobility with AI Renault and Thales have unveiled 4 Troop, a hybrid 4x4 concept that links civil vehicle platforms with secure communications, AI-supported command functions, drone integration, V2L power supply and scalable production for faster operational deployment by modern land forces. Benjamin Müller
How BMW is securing its electronics supply chain Geopolitical tensions, rising costs and growing chip complexity are putting increasing pressure on automotive electronics procurement. At the AEK, BMW’s Florian Weig explained why transparency, standards and new forms of collaboration are becoming critical. Pascal Nagel
Live Blog from the AUTOMOBIL-ELEKTRONIK Kongress 2026 After a first day dominated by SDVs, AI and semiconductor strategies, the second day of AEK 2026 in Ludwigsburg continued the discussions around vehicle architectures, automation and the next steps towards series production. Dr. Martin Large
“Putting the ghost in the machine” As AI moves from the cloud into the vehicle, compute architectures must deliver low latency, efficiency and scalability. Harald Kroeger of SiMa.ai explains why edge-first AI will shape the next phase of software-defined vehicles. Benjamin Müller
“Chiplets enable a shift to a true top-down design approach” Chiplets could reshape how automotive electronics platforms are designed and scaled. Bosch’s Michael Schaffert explains where the technology creates value, and what still limits industrial adoption. Benjamin Müller
AEK 2026: where the future of the car takes shape The AUTOMOBIL-ELEKTRONIK Kongress celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2026. At a time of profound transformation, industry leaders discuss SDVs, AI and new partnerships — and how vision turns into execution. Dr. Martin Large
“The most meaningful KPI is feature retention or stickiness” As vehicles evolve into connected ecosystems, seamless user experiences across apps, cars and services become critical. Betty Yagis, Hyundai Connected Mobility, explains how UX strategy, identity and AI shape scalable digital ecosystems. Benjamin Müller
Head-up displays: system architecture and technologies Head-up displays have evolved into complex opto-electronic systems in vehicles. Their architecture combines image generation, projection and optical integration — with display technologies defining performance and future development. Sabine Synkule
“The real bottleneck is not software – it is validation” Generative AI is dramatically accelerating the development of software-defined vehicles. Yet according to KPIT COO Anup Sable, the real bottleneck lies elsewhere: integration and validation. In this interview, he explains why many SDV projects begin to stall just before reaching the finish line. Andrea Hoffmann-Topp
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
Geely Unveils Purpose-Built Eva Cab Robotaxi Geely is positioning the Eva Cab as a purpose-built robotaxi for driverless fleet operations, with Level 4 technology, ride-hailing expertise and a target of up to 100,000 vehicles by 2030. Benjamin Müller
“SDVs require a different kind of collaboration across the ecosystem” As SDV architectures reshape vehicle development, sourcing and standardization are becoming strategic issues. Joachim Kahmann of Stellantis explains how purchasing, partnerships and platform decisions will influence future value creation. Benjamin Müller
“OEMs should allow more flexibility in adopting community-based standards” Open source is becoming a strategic lever for SDV platforms as carmakers seek to reuse non-differentiating software at scale. Dr Martin Wagner of BMW explains how S-CORE within Eclipse SDV aims to support safety, ADAS and series viability. Benjamin Müller
BMW i3 vs Mercedes EQ C-Class: who wins the battle? BMW and Mercedes are bringing their next-generation electric sedans to market. The i3 and EQ C-Class compete on range, charging, software and interior experience — but which one comes out on top? Stefan Grundhoff
“Platforms are the backbone of AI-supported engineering” AI will only deliver real productivity gains in automotive software engineering when it is scaled across processes, toolchains and governance. Saskia Kohlhaas of IAV explains how AI-infused engineering can be implemented effectively. Benjamin Müller
“Bike sharing has moved well beyond urban leisure” Corporate mobility is expanding beyond the company car as firms rethink how employees travel day to day. Matthias Weber of Nextbike explains where bike sharing fits into that shift and where companies still have untapped potential. Benjamin Müller
“If the ecosystem is misaligned, scalability breaks down” As vehicle software grows more complex, the key challenge is no longer technology, but execution at scale. Dr Thomas Irawan of ETAS explains how open foundations, ecosystem alignment and platform discipline can make SDV strategies scalable. Benjamin Müller
ChargeTec 2026 puts billing at the centre of EV charging At the ChargeTec Conference 2026 in Munich, the future of EV charging was shown to depend not only on power, sites and grid access, but on automated systems for contracts, pricing, invoicing, taxes, compliance and revenue sharing. Andrea Hoffmann-Topp
“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
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
Proof Over Vision: Mobility+AI in Reality Check At the Mobility+AI Conference, automated mobility moves from vision to proof, as safety evidence, regulatory readiness, operational clarity and public trust emerge as the factors that now determine commercial progress. Andrea Hoffmann-Topp
“The real challenge is functional traceability” As AI enters automotive software engineering, scalable development is becoming a process challenge. Georg Doll, CTO Automotive & Mobility at Microsoft, explains how spec-driven development and AI agents can turn formal intent into verified code. Benjamin Müller
Stellantis and Microsoft Deepen AI Partnership Stellantis and Microsoft are expanding their collaboration through a five-year partnership focused on AI, cloud and cybersecurity across vehicle development, digital services and enterprise IT. 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
When Automotive UX Becomes SDV Architecture In-display sensing, projected surfaces and AR technologies show how automotive UX is moving beyond the interface. What matters now is integration, validation and calibration across the SDV stack – a shift clearly visible in Aumovio’s current concepts. 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
“The main constraint lies in the complexity of heterogeneous software” As vehicles evolve into software-defined platforms, delivering consistent HMI experiences across ecosystems becomes a key challenge. Werner Koestler, Pioneer, explains how integration, regulation and UX strategy shape future in-car experiences. Benjamin Müller
VW and Rivian validate new E/E architecture in winter tests Volkswagen and Rivian have successfully completed winter testing of their joint E/E architecture. The upcoming ID. Every1 will be the first model to deploy it — marking a key step in VW’s EV strategy. 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
Uber brings robotaxi service to Europe Uber is launching its first robotaxi service in Europe together with Pony.ai and Verne. Public road validation is underway in Zagreb, with plans to scale the service to thousands of vehicles. Benjamin Müller
The infrastructure behind electric mobility At ChargeTec 2026 in Munich, grid operators, carmakers and start-ups will discuss how grid integration, storage technologies and new business models could reshape EV charging infrastructure. Andrea Hoffmann-Topp
