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
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
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
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
Transformation at China Speed In September 2025, Continental’s automotive division was spun off and listed on the stock exchange under the new name Aumovio. We spoke with Nino Romano, CTO at Aumovio, about the reasons behind the spin-off, the new opportunities it creates, China Speed, SDVs, autonomous driving, and much more. ADT editorial team
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
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
“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
Why digital infrastructure is becoming the backbone of future mobility A recent study by Digital Realty highlights how data centres, cloud architectures and real-time processing are turning into critical success factors for the automotive industry. Insights from 215 executives show where the sector stands — and where the real bottlenecks lie. ADT editorial team
“Our goal must be to end up with a single-digit number of ERP systems” Since January 2025, Thomas Buck has been CIO at ZF, driving the German company’s IT transformation with a fresh perspective. In the following interview, he explains how he is reshaping IT, what challenges lie ahead, and why architecture plays a decisive role. Pascal Nagel
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
“S-CORE is the blueprint – we build the actual structure” As open-source architectures move into the core of software-defined vehicles, Eclipse S-CORE aims to deliver the first near-series middleware standard for the industry. In the interview, Dr Nico Hartmann, CTO at Qorix, explains how far the implementation has already progressed — and what comes next. ADT editorial team
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
Percepio partners with BMW to boost software performance Percepio and BMW are joining forces to improve real-time software performance in next-generation vehicles. The Swedish software developer provides key insights that support scalability, reliability, and faster development of Software-Defined Vehicles. Benjamin Müller
“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
Secor introduces a standardised, software-configurable chip Munich-based start-up Secor has brought its SDV concept into a production vehicle for the first time, using a standardised chip that rethinks in-car electronics. Early indicators on development speed and cost point in a clear direction. ADT editorial team
Aumovio and SAP forge cloud alliance Aumovio is moving its SAP landscape into the cloud through a strategic collaboration with the provider. The transformation aims to deliver greater flexibility, faster update cycles and a modern digital backbone for the company’s next growth phase. 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
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
When the car picks up the bill As mobility becomes more digital, tokenisation offers new ways to manage payments, component histories and vehicle identities. German manufacturers are now testing blockchain to bring these concepts into real operations. 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
Siemens and Saicec accelerate SDV chip validation Siemens and Saicec plan to speed up the validation of automotive chips by applying advanced digital-twin technology. Their joint approach targets faster certification cycles and more reliable system-level testing. ADT editorial team
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
“The biggest barriers are mindset and organizational structure” As the shift toward hyperscale platforms accelerates, legacy automotive structures face an existential test. NXP’s Houssem Ghanmi explains how OEMs can move from adaptation to reinvention in the software-defined era. Benjamin Müller
Chinese brands force Europe to rethink its strategy Chinese manufacturers now set the pace in connected-car innovation, yet German OEMs still hold important advantages. The decisive question will be how quickly they can convert these strengths into competitive progress. 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
“Memory solutions also enable lower power consumption” As multimodal AI turns cars into data centers on wheels, memory and storage become critical. Chris Jacobs from Micron explains how new DRAM and flash architectures deliver the bandwidth, latency, and reliability needed for real-time in-vehicle AI. Benjamin Müller
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
“Performance simulation and predictive analysis play a critical role” Balancing performance and functional safety remains one of the toughest challenges in automotive computing. Mercedes-Benz expert Deepak Vedha Raj Sudhakar explains how model-based simulation optimizes SoC design and accelerates ADAS integration. Benjamin Müller
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
Infineon and partners present supercomputing platform 28 partners from industry and research have developed a central supercomputing platform for cars with Mannheim-CeCaS. The 'Made in Germany' demonstrator aims to consolidate computing power, reduce complexity, and pave the way for safe autonomous driving. Ronja Schmiedchen
“Greening the supply chain is no longer optional but essential” Zonal architectures and digitalised designs are reshaping automotive wiring systems. In this interview, Karsten Dieckmann from Sumitomo explains how the company is driving automation, sustainability, and scalable E/E integration for tomorrow’s mobility. 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
“Not everything makes sense to be centralized” Microcontrollers remain vital to automotive innovation. Marco Cassol from Infineon explains how MCUs evolve alongside high-performance SoCs to ensure safety, determinism, and efficiency in software-defined vehicles. Benjamin Müller
Bertrandt presents autonomous shuttle for rural areas Together with the Bern University of Applied Sciences, the engineering service provider has developed the BumbleB shuttle to primarily provide answers to current mobility issues beyond urban areas. Götz Fuchslocher
“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
Qorix brings S-CORE middleware to hardware Qorix demonstrates key components of the S-CORE middleware in its performance stack on real hardware. This marks a crucial step towards the practical implementation of open software architectures in the automotive sector. Martin Large
How AI becomes the link at Hyundai The car becomes an intelligent companion. Experts discuss at the Hyundai Future Talk how artificial intelligence can make vehicles more personal, safer, and more accessible - and how technology, trust, and responsibility shape the driving of the future. Ronja Schmiedchen
“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
KPIT Enables Centralized and Scalable Solutions for Next-Generation Mobility The shift toward software-defined vehicles is transforming traditional architectures into centralized, scalable systems that emphasize safety and efficient data handling. Andrea Hoffmann-Topp
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
Is the range extender making a comeback? It became clear not only during a tour of the IAA in Munich: the much-maligned range extenders could become a topic for us again. Suppliers are working hard on the drive technology - not just for customers in China. Stefan Grundhoff
“The focus is shifting towards the interior experience” Lighting systems are becoming increasingly complex and connected. Philipp Kolb from Lightworks explains how design, electronics, and optics merge into homogeneous, functional lighting solutions – and why balance and precision are key to the next generation of intelligent in-car lighting. Benjamin Müller
How the automotive industry is rebalancing HMI Huge displays were considered the future of cars. Today it is clear: drivers want buttons back, intuition and safety are coming into focus. Suppliers like Kostal and Preh are developing hybrid HMI concepts for the next digital era. Ronja Schmiedchen
“Light must be developed and conceived holistically” Digital LEDs and ILaS transform vehicle lighting into a connected, intelligent system. SP3 expert Mathias Rönnfeldt explains how design, electronics, and software merge into dynamic, emotional lighting systems of the next generation. Benjamin Müller
ACEA launches data platform for greater industry transparency ACEA has introduced a digital platform that provides comprehensive data on the European automotive industry - including figures on registrations, powertrains, emissions, and employment. The aim is greater transparency in industry developments. Ronja Schmiedchen
Smart cloud instead of cloud first Cloud first is a thing of the past: The automotive industry is focusing on hybrid multicloud and agentic AI. Various IT experts explain how costs, governance, security, energy, and talent shape the architecture. Ronja Schmiedchen
“Light will be functionally integrated into the workflow” Light in the vehicle interior is increasingly becoming an intelligent interface: Stefan Menninger from Preh explains how interdisciplinary thinking, embedded software, and system integration enable the next generation of connected interior lighting. Benjamin Müller
VW Nutzfahrzeuge connected with Connected Cars Volkswagen Nutzfahrzeuge and Connected Cars have started a cooperation that goes far beyond classic maintenance. With real-time data and telematics, a new ecosystem for fleet customers is to be created - and this is just the beginning. Dr. Martin Large
“We need to drastically reduce the complexity” Smart LEDs are transforming car interiors – but also adding complexity. Paul Henri Matha from Driving Vision News explains why the next big challenge for in-car lighting isn’t more innovation, but simplification. Benjamin Müller
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
“IMSE enables seamless HMIs like hidden-until-lit controls” Integrating light and electronics directly into structural components marks a shift in how car interiors are designed. In this interview, Hubert Bieder of Tactotek explains how IMSE (Injection Molded Structural Electronics) enables functional surfaces that merge lighting, sensing, and control. Benjamin Müller
“Higher costs require more flexibility in procurement” Interior lighting in cars is becoming increasingly intelligent, connected, and personalised. Otmar Rauchensteiner from Dräxlmaier explains how software and AI are shaping the lighting architecture of the future - and how global trade conflicts affect it. Benjamin Müller
“Collaboration between academia and industry will lead to striking lighting effects” Smart lighting and advanced display systems are transforming the vehicle interior into an interactive space. Karlheinz Blankenbach – founder of the Display Lab at Pforzheim University – explains how digital LEDs, metrology, and human visual effects will drive the next wave of intelligent, energy-efficient in-car experiences. Benjamin Müller
Mercedes demonstrates the range power of the solid-state battery Mercedes has proven the performance of the solid-state battery with a modified EQS: 1,205 kilometres from Stuttgart to Malmö without a charging stop. Volkswagen is also taking the next development steps. automotiveIT editorial team
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
Electric CLA shows strengths and weaknesses in Norway Few countries are as committed to electromobility as Norway. It is here that the new electric Mercedes-Benz CLA faces its trial - on winding roads, in clear air, and with views of fjords and mountains. Ronja Schmiedchen
“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
A Rusty New Car The relatively new programming language Rust promises safety, but risks still lurk under the hood. In the automotive industry, even the smallest error can be fatal – and yet C/C++ remain in play. A risky mix with consequences. Nicole Ahner
AWS and Here launch SDV Accelerator AWS and HERE present the SDV Accelerator at the IAA Mobility in Munich. The platform is designed to support automotive manufacturers in the development, testing, and integration of software-defined vehicles. Ronja Schmiedchen
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
„Ignoring China is not an option for multinational wiring harness manufacturers“ In the run-up to the Automotive Wire Harness & EDS Conference 2025, we spoke with Paul Johnston from Siemens Digital Industries Software about the trends reshaping the wire harness sector – from SDVs and global market pressures to AI’s role in design and manufacturing. Benjamin Müller
