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
48 V instead of 12 V: DC/DC converters in focus of the SDV The vehicle of tomorrow integrates multiple voltage levels. 12 V, 48 V as well as 400- and 800-volt systems increase the complexity of the electrical architecture. Haris Muhedinovic and Andreas Wisser from Vicor explain the role DC/DC converters play in this context. Alfred Vollmer
“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
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
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
“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
“Cost efficiency is a key priority in our development strategy” The Automotive Wire Harness industry is facing major shifts: electrification, data networks and sustainability are redefining cable development. In this interview, Tobias Kupka from GG Group shares his perspective on materials, innovation and OEM demands shaping the next generation of vehicle architectures. Benjamin Müller
“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
“We want to build supply chain resilience through automation” Wire harness production is shifting from manual assembly to automated pre-assembly. Christian Infanger of Komax, one of the speakers at this year’s Automotive Wire Harness & EDS Conference, explains how one-piece flow, modular systems, and advanced processes cut errors, boost throughput, and enhance scalability. 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
This was the 13th Conference Bordnetze im Automobil The 13th Conference Bordnetze im Automobil (Automotive Wire Harness & EDS 2025) brought the industry back to Ludwigsburg. International industry experts gathered in the tranquil town near Stuttgart to explore the latest innovations in vehicle wiring systems, E/E architectures, and Software-Defined Vehicles. Benjamin Müller
