“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
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
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
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
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
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
“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
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
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
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
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
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
“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
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
„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 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
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
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
Volkswagen wants to democratise AI – and save billions To what extent can the use of AI offer a new perspective to struggling car manufacturers? Europe's largest OEM is focusing on an AI offensive and a 'Large Industry Model'. Recently, a dedicated AI Lab has been established. What does the overall strategy look like? Timo Gilgen
Mercedes Vehicles to Become Mobile Offices Mercedes-Benz expands Microsoft integration in vehicles: Teams meetings with camera, Intune for secure business use, and Copilot API for AI-powered productivity aim to attract business customers. Timo Gilgen
This is why BMW relies on Momenta in China BMW is collaborating with the Chinese ADAS specialist Momenta to develop driver assistance systems for the Chinese market - tailored to local conditions, complemented by global collaborations. Timo Gilgen
This is how Bosch aims to shorten development times Bosch and ETAS want to significantly shorten the path to the software-defined vehicle as part of a joint development project. The initiative made it to the shortlist of the IT Team Awards by automotiveIT last year. Yannick Tiedemann
How Vehicle Displays Become Real-Time Marketing Channels With the integration of the 4.screen platform into their infotainment systems, Kia and Hyundai are connecting vehicles, drivers, and brands in innovative ways - and opening the door to new business models. automotiveIT editorial team
The Future of Artificial Intelligence in the Automotive Industry At the AUTOMOBIL-ELEKTRONIK Kongress 2025, AI was one of the central topics and appeared in many forms: as a driver of technical innovation, as a risk, and as a key to new vehicle concepts. What the speakers said about the topic. Dr. Martin Large
“A fundamental shift is required” SDV adoption requires deep structural change. Dr Matthias Traub, President and Managing Director at Vector Informatik, explains how OEMs can overcome key hurdles and benefit from strategic platform partnerships. Benjamin Müller
How Vehicle Connectivity Becomes a Business Model Who pays for connectivity in the connected car? OEMs are striving for an appropriate and profitable answer. Providing a solid subscription model with all its associated complexities is anything but simple. Nicole Ahner
Is AI a Curse or a Blessing for Cybersecurity? While AI offers potential for risk detection, it also increases the range of cyber threats. We explain why the connected car is so vulnerable to digital attacks and whether AI is more of an opportunity or a risk for cybersecurity. Ronja Schmiedchen
AEK 2025: SDV, AI & Mega-Alliances in Focus The AUTOMOBIL-ELEKTRONIK Kongress 2025 has highlighted key challenges and future topics of the automotive industry – from AI to SDV to new partnerships. Here are five topics that shaped the event. Dr. Martin Large
Firefly relies on map data and services from Here Nio's more affordable sub-brand Firefly will soon be supplied by Here with map data and location-based services for electric vehicles and driver assistance systems. Here aims to strengthen its presence in China, while Nio aims to strengthen its presence in Europe. Benjamin Müller
“God’s Eye” by BYD in Practical Test BYD aims to revolutionise autonomous driving with its God’s Eye technology. Three performance levels, AI-supported scenario recognition, and impressive driving performance in the test show: The Chinese system is convincing - but when will it be available in Europe? Wolfgang Gomoll
ZF launches Smart Chassis Sensor in Cadillac Celestiq ZF equips Smart Chassis Sensor for Cadillac’s all-electric flagship Celestiq. It is permanently integrated into the ball joints of all four-wheel suspensions and determines the vehicle's ride height. Smart algorithms generate information from it. Benjamin Müller
“The cell-to-pack (CTP) approach is gaining traction” Tesla and BYD set the pace in cell innovation. In this interview, Jonas Gorsch – a speaker at the Automotive Battery Conference 2025 – reveals what European developers must learn to scale next-gen battery production. Benjamin Müller
When the IoT Becomes the Weakness The use of more sensors, IoT devices, and OTA updates simultaneously creates increasingly risky security vulnerabilities. From the perspective of cybersecurity experts, it is almost impossible to prevent more serious consequences in the long term. Daniela Hoffmann
“The new iDrive system epitomizes the concept of a software-defined vehicle” At AEK 2025, Stephan Durach presented BMW’s Panoramic iDrive. In this interview, he explains how shy-tech controls, head-up projection, and a customizable interface redefine human-machine interaction in the software-defined cockpit. Benjamin Müller
Automotive Industry Collaborates More Closely on Software Development Eleven renowned OEMs and suppliers have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate more closely on non-differentiating vehicle software in the coming years. A first open-source-based core stack is expected to be available by 2026. Yannick Tiedemann
Continental establishes unit for semiconductors and electronics Continental's automotive division has established a new business unit for the development and production of electronics and semiconductor solutions: Advanced Electronics & Semiconductor Solutions (AESS). The manufacturing partner will be GlobalFoundries. Benjamin Müller
These are the data architectures BMW and Kuka rely on The use of GenAI accelerates the availability of information. However, it also requires a different data quality and availability. Only in this way can AI knowledge systems be created on one's own data that do not hallucinate. Daniela Hoffmann
“Global OEMs are under pressure” “Speed of change” is the most critical KPI in SDV strategy, says Anup Sable—because innovation must be fast, efficient, and scalable to succeed in the global race. As CTO of KPIT, he is one of this year’s AEK speakers, whom we interviewed ahead of the conference. Benjamin Müller
“Edge computing is not a nice-to-have - it’s the only path forward” Compute power, platform strategy, edge intelligence - the future of autonomous mobility begins inside the vehicle. That’s the conviction of Salil Raje, SVP of AMD. Ahead of his talk at the Automobil Elektronik Kongress 2025, we asked him three key questions on this topic cluster. Benjamin Müller
What’s ahead at the Automotive Battery Conference 2025? On July 9–10, 2025, the 7th edition of “The Automotive Battery – Key Technology for Electric Vehicles” will take place at the SZ Tower in Munich. The event delivers deep industry insight, strategic guidance, and networking opportunities for professionals in the automotive battery ecosystem. Benjamin Müller
The Unbridled Horse Although Ford offering the Mustang as an electric car causes pain for petrolheads, the powerful electric horse delivers technically. Especially hands-free driving at Level 2+ convinces in practical tests. Timo Gilgen
What’s ahead at the Automobil-Elektronik Kongress 2025? On 24 June, it's finally that time again: Decision-makers in the fields of electricity, electronics, and software in cars will meet in Ludwigsburg for the Automobil-Elektronik Kongress, the annual networking event of the industry. Sabine Synkule
“The future belongs to a holistic UX/UI concept” As Product Experience Director Europe at NIO, Benjamin Steinmetz contributed to the 2025 Automotive Software Strategies Conference in Munich. We took the opportunity to speak with him and ask three key questions. Benjamin Müller
This was the Automotive Software Strategies Conference 2025 The 6th Automotive Software Strategies Conference brought global industry leaders to Munich for two days of in-depth presentations and strategic insights. The event focused on SDVs, the adoption of Rust, monetisation models, AI in development, and the evolving software supply chain. Benjamin Müller
All Information on the 13th Automotive Wire Harness Congress The wiring systems industry is undergoing extreme changes: There are software updates instead of cables, 800-volt technology instead of standard power, and many more changes... At the Automotive Wire Harness 2025, you can see who is leading the way. What can participants expect? Dr. Martin Large
Continental turns the display into a sound source Continental integrates audio functions directly into the display unit for the first time with the Ac2ated Sound Display. The technology uses the display glass for sound transmission - and aims to open up new possibilities for space, weight, and user interaction. Ronja Schmiedchen
