“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
Micron and Ford team up on next-gen vehicle memory Micron and Ford are strengthening their supply base for future vehicle programmes. The long-term agreement covers automotive memory and storage solutions as data-heavy functions, local US production and long product cycles make component availability more critical. Dr. Martin Large
“Global platforms need local freedom” Many customers want less complexity in the car and digital functions that are easy to use. In an interview at the AUTOMOBIL-ELEKTRONIK Kongress, Stellantis executive Ned Curic explains how STLA Brain and STLA SmartCockpit combine customer experience, personalisation and scalability. Pascal Nagel
How Capgemini supports Bentley’s digital transformation Bentley has chosen Capgemini as a strategic digital transformation partner for its Crewe site. The cooperation will focus on manufacturing systems, data and AI capabilities, IT services and back-office integration as the OEM prepares its first electric model. 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
Stellantis, Wayve and Uber target global Level 4 Robotaxis Robotaxi deployment is increasingly becoming an ecosystem challenge rather than a standalone technology race. Stellantis, Wayve and Uber are combining vehicle platforms, AI driving software and mobility services to accelerate the commercial rollout of Level 4 autonomous transport. Ronja Schmiedchen
“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
“ISELED is no longer an experimental concept” As vehicle interiors become increasingly software-defined, digital lighting must scale beyond design features. Robert Isele, GM and CEO of Inova Semiconductors, explains how ISELED, ILaS and open ecosystems can support this shift. Benjamin Müller
Mercedes prepares point-to-point driving for Germany Mercedes wants to bring assisted urban driving to Germany after launches in China and the US. From late 2026, point-to-point navigation should help cars handle dense city traffic with the driver still responsible. Benjamin Müller
“The Chinese SDV model tends to favour in-house AI development” As SDVs and AI become central to automotive competition, manufacturers face growing pressure to industrialise both at scale. Dr Liu Qiang, Vice President of Li Auto and General Manager of Li Auto Germany R&D Center, explains how AI, SDVs and embodied intelligence are reshaping vehicle architecture. Benjamin Müller
Volvo secures exemption for connected vehicles Volvo Cars has received special approval from US authorities to continue importing and selling connected vehicles in the USA. The exemption comes under new security rules restricting the use of certain Chinese and Russian hardware and software in connected cars. Benjamin Müller
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
The semiconductor paradox in today’s cars Modern vehicles depend on more and more semiconductors, yet that is precisely where the paradox lies: technological progress boosts performance, connectivity and comfort while simultaneously increasing complexity, costs and supply chain vulnerability. Dr. Oliver Aubel
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
“The future of mobility will not be won by infrastructure alone” Corporate mobility is shifting from company cars towards integrated mobility ecosystems. Florian Windeler, CEO and Co-Founder of Curious Mobility, explains how platforms and data are reshaping employee mobility. Benjamin Müller
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
WeRide and Uber bring Robotaxis to Madrid WeRide and Uber are taking their Robotaxi partnership to Europe. Madrid will host the first commercial pilot, offering a glimpse into how autonomous ride-hailing could scale across regulated urban markets. Benjamin Müller
BMW upgrades assisted driving where it matters most BMW is stepping back from Level 3 automation and doubling down on assisted driving instead. New functions, wider availability and a stronger human-machine partnership are now at the centre of its roadmap. Yannick Tiedemann
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
Voice assistants in cars gain traction slowly Voice assistants are becoming more relevant in vehicles, but everyday usage remains limited. A new study highlights growing potential for AI voice agents — and clear gaps in automotive customer service. Ronja Schmiedchen
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
KPIT Moves to Acquire Cybersecurity Specialist Cymotive KPIT is taking a staged route towards full ownership of Cymotive by 2029, strengthening its cybersecurity portfolio as connected, software-defined vehicles turn threat analysis, monitoring and lifecycle protection into strategic requirements. Benjamin Müller
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
Moia and Beep Bring Robotaxis to Florida Moia and Beep are taking autonomous ID. Buzz vehicles to Florida, with Orlando becoming the launch region for a long-term robotaxi and microtransit rollout targeting cities, public transport operators, campuses and urban districts. 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
BMW integrates Bosch warning system Bosch is rolling out its Road Hazard Service at the BMW Group. The cloud-based solution uses vehicle and weather data to alert drivers to risks such as heavy rain, black ice, accidents or wrong-way drivers at an early stage and to support driver assistance systems more precisely. Ronja Schmiedchen
“Change management is just as important as technology” Corporate mobility is shifting from company cars to integrated mobility ecosystems combining electrification, data and employee choice. SAP’s Steffen Krautwasser explains how fleet strategy, AI and flexible mobility drive sustainable transformation. Benjamin Müller
ChargeTec 2026: From Charge Points to Critical Systems At the ChargeTec Conference 2026 in Munich, the message was clear: EV charging no longer succeeds by adding more charge points alone, but by making infrastructure reliable, grid-aware, data-driven and commercially scalable. Andrea Hoffmann-Topp
Inside the Shift to Exhaustive Analysis As the automotive industry accelerates toward SDV architectures, manufacturers are confronting a fundamental shift in engineering complexity. Software is no longer a supporting component; it is the primary driver of functionality, differentiation, and lifecycle value. Caroline Guillaume
“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
Valeo Uses Safety Data to Redefine In-Car UX Valeo is reshaping the vehicle interior around AI, in-cabin sensing and software, linking safety data with personalised user experiences and new digital services. Ronja Schmiedchen
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
Geely Tech EU and 3SS power Zeekr media Geely Tech EU and 3SS have launched a new in-car entertainment hub for Zeekr in Europe. The platform adds streaming, live TV, news and brand content, while turning the car into a software-led digital touchpoint. Dr. Martin Large
“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
What MG’s new semi-solid-state battery can deliver MG is bringing semi-solid-state battery technology closer to series production. The Solid-Core battery promises improved performance, charging and stability — marking a tangible step towards next-generation battery systems. Wolfgang Gomoll
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
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
NHTSA probes Tesla Autopilot over safety concerns US regulators are intensifying their investigation into Tesla’s driver assistance system, as crash data raises concerns about the reliability of camera-based autonomy in poor visibility. Benjamin Müller
Ready Ride: the next step towards the connected motorcycle Motorcycles have long lagged behind cars in digital development. Harman’s new Ready Ride platform combines telematics, cloud connectivity and OTA updates — but could it turn bikes into true software devices? Dr. Martin Large
“ADAS is the primary domain to benefit from virtualization at scale” As SDVs push software complexity and validation demands to new levels, development speed becomes a critical bottleneck. Ford’s Cedric Armand explains how virtualization reshapes software delivery, testing and system integration. Benjamin Müller
Lucid targets profitability with midsize platform Lucid has outlined a new product and financial strategy centred on a midsize platform, new drive technology and autonomous mobility. The goal: scale volumes and improve margins. Benjamin Müller
“Chiplet architectures can solve real performance, yield and cost challenges” As SDVs increase demand for advanced compute, automotive faces growing pressure from global semiconductor constraints. Imec’s Jim Foresi explains how chiplet architectures and open standards can enable scalable vehicle platforms. Benjamin Müller
Uber and Rivian target 50,000 robotaxis by 2031 Uber and Rivian are planning a major push into autonomous mobility, with up to 50,000 R2 robotaxis expected to enter service across North America and Europe by 2031. Benjamin Müller
“The key is to measure user value rather than output” As cars evolve into connected ecosystems spanning home, office and mobility, delivering consistent user experiences across platforms becomes a strategic challenge. Design executive Wolfgang Bremer explains how scalable UX and operating models will shape customer-centric mobility. Benjamin Müller
Edge computing as a building block of modern vehicle architectures Edge computing is moving to the centre of vehicle IT. With new industry blueprints and growing data demands, the architecture of connected vehicles is shifting. An overview of technologies, key players and open architectural questions. Ronja Schmiedchen
“Welding aluminium requires experience and tight process controls” How can aluminium be used consistently in LV and HV contact systems without compromising reliability? One Mobility’s Thomas Lorenz explains where aluminium already wins – and where engineering discipline remains critical. Benjamin Müller
Uber integrates robotaxis from Zoox Robotaxis developed by Amazon subsidiary Zoox will soon be bookable via the Uber app. Services are set to launch in Las Vegas later this year, with Los Angeles following in 2027. 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
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
How do autonomous cars communicate in everyday traffic? SALSA addresses the challenges that arise when automated vehicles interact with conventional cars and other road users. The project partners have now presented their first results. Götz Fuchslocher
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
Holon and CharterUp move autonomous mobility into operation By combining Holon’s 360-degree mobility solution with CharterUp’s operational expertise and nationwide platform, the partners aim to scale autonomous local transport safely and sustainably. Benjamin Müller
China tightens rules for autonomous driving China is tightening legal requirements for automated driving systems. New standards will oblige Level 3 systems to act more independently, including performing a defined safety manoeuvre. 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
Infineon prioritises AI and SDVs in 2026 Infineon enters fiscal year 2026 with stable quarterly figures while strategically sharpening its focus on AI data centres, software-defined vehicles and physical AI. The shift requires substantial investment. Dr. Martin Large
What the new UN draft means for OEMs and tech players Autonomous driving was long seen as a purely technological challenge. Yet without a globally aligned legal framework, large-scale deployment remains out of reach. Regulation now determines scalability. Andrea Hoffmann-Topp
“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
These Infineon chips power BMW’s Neue Klasse With the iX3, BMW launches the Neue Klasse and a new E/E architecture. Four central computers consolidate vehicle functions, powered by Infineon Aurix microcontrollers, Ethernet components and digital fuses. Dr. Martin Large
“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
