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
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
“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
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 Germans really feel about autonomous driving Autonomous mobility is gaining acceptance in Germany. Many expect quieter streets, smoother traffic and greater safety and comfort. Despite concerns around technology, legislation and costs, most respondents show strong openness to self-driving 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
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
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
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
Bolt and Pony.ai join forces to launch robotaxis Chinese robotaxi companies are turning their attention to Europe. Pony.ai has now partnered with Estonian mobility platform Bolt to prepare a driverless ride service, combining autonomous vehicle technology with Bolt’s established ecosystem. 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
What autonomous transport could mean for public budgets Autonomous buses have the potential to shift the financial foundations of public transport. Lower operating costs and new fleet concepts could reduce the level of public funding required over the coming decades. 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
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
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
Moia brings autonomous shuttles to Berlin In the northwest of Berlin, a new chapter of urban mobility begins: for the first time, autonomous VW ID. Buzz AD from Moia are on public roads. The project aims to test how public transport can be expanded with flexible, self-driving options. Ronja Schmiedchen
What is the legal situation regarding autonomous driving? Autonomous driving is approaching: New laws, pilot projects, and technical advancements are changing the framework conditions. Find out which regulations apply in Germany, how EU requirements are implemented, and who is liable in the event of an accident. Timo Gilgen
Between Google Maps and Abbey Road in the Polestar 3 The Polestar 3 combines Scandinavian design with digital strength: Google infotainment, 1,610 watt Bowers & Wilkins sound and precise assistance systems. However, CarPlay issues and high consumption mar the high-tech appearance. Timo Gilgen
“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
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
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
BMW and E.ON launch first bidirectional customer offering With vehicle-to-grid, the electric car becomes part of the energy system: The BMW iX3 can not only receive electricity but also feed it back into the grid. BMW and E.ON are thus bringing a commercial V2G offering for private customers to Germany for the first time. Ronja Schmiedchen
“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
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 OLED displays are changing the cockpit More and more OEMs are bringing OLED displays into production. What distinguishes the technology from LCDs, what advantages it offers in vehicles, and how Samsung is accelerating with automotive OLEDs - including new form factors and safety functions. Ronja Schmiedchen
How Nio plans to counter German dominance in the luxury segment Chinese brands target the European luxury class. Nio leads with the ET9, focusing on innovative solutions over image. We drove the semi-autonomous premium EV in China and examine its short development time. Jürgen Zöllter
„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
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
Autonomy in the Midst of Chaos Despite stricter rules following a fatal Xiaomi accident, urban assistance remains in demand in China. Therefore, Mercedes is focusing on the next big step towards autopilot with the new CLA. Thomas Geiger
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
How Tesla is Changing its AI Hardware Strategy In the summer of 2025, Tesla discontinued the Dojo supercomputer project and will now focus on AI5 and AI6 chips, manufactured by Samsung. What are the goals behind this and what risks does the exclusive 2-nm manufacturing pose? Martin Large
Electrification of Cars Changes Vehicle Design Electrification replaces mechanical systems with electrical modules - from power steering to cooling pumps. New vehicle architectures, 48-V technologies, and intelligent components are driving this change across the entire mobility industry. Matt McWhinney
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
Lyft tests Baidu robotaxis in Europe Lyft and Baidu will launch an autonomous mobility offensive in Europe in 2026. The all-electric RT6 robotaxis are initially set to operate in Germany and the United Kingdom, with the aim of building the continent's largest AV network. Ronja Schmiedchen
The Audi A6 e-tron in Everyday Use With the A6 e-tron – based on the delayed PPE architecture – Audi aims to make its mark in the upper mid-range segment. Our focus is primarily on the digital user experience and driver assistance systems. How well are these elements harmoniously implemented in everyday driving? Timo Gilgen
Bosch presents new SoC for ADAS applications Bosch injects momentum into radar technology: With new SoCs, the supplier aims to combine computing power, AI capability, and compact integration to equip assistance systems for the next level of automated mobility. Ronja Schmiedchen
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
Stellantis integrates 4screen into infotainment systems Stellantis is rolling out location-based services from the start-up 4screen into its infotainment systems. Initial brand models are already equipped, with more to follow - focusing on contextual content and driver comfort. automotiveIT editorial team
What does a Battery Production Data Scientist do? The high-voltage battery is considered the most important differentiating feature in electric cars. BMW uses highly intelligent data-driven systems in battery production. To ensure these become more sophisticated, there are people like Patrick Zimmermann. Chris Löwer
Teleoperated Driving to be Permitted in Germany The Straßenverkehr-Fernlenk-Verordnung (Road Traffic Remote Control Regulation) creates for the first time a legal framework for the operation of remotely controlled motor vehicles on public roads in Germany. The federal government sees significant potential for increasing efficiency in this. Benjamin Müller
From Supplier to Software Company The future of software-defined suppliers has begun. For example, Continental has developed its own platform for software-defined vehicles with its Automotive Edge Platform. Just one example among many. Chris Löwer
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
What Car Manufacturers Expect from the Chief AI Officer After the CDO comes the CAIO. In the executive suites of car manufacturers like Mercedes or GM, there are now AI directors who are supposed to transform processes and culture across the company. But the pressure to succeed is high - the CAIO must deliver, and quickly. Yannick Tiedemann
How Continental Rethinks Software Security How do data-driven decisions, new partnership models, and a revised understanding of security shape the transformation in the realm of software-defined vehicles? Jeremy McClain, Continental Autonomous Mobility, provides answers in the interview. Dr. Martin Large
