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
“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
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
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
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
What to expect at the Automotive Computing Conference 2026 On 24 and 25 March 2026, the Automotive Computing Conference returns to Detroit. Industry experts from OEMs, suppliers and technology partners will discuss how SDVs, AI, virtualisation and new computing architectures are reshaping the automotive industry. Benjamin Müller
Immersive lighting design transforms the vehicle cabin Lighting in vehicles is evolving beyond pure functionality. Through immersive, emotional and biologically effective concepts, the interior is becoming a personalised experiential space. This transformation is driven by advanced LEDs, lighting artistry and intelligent design. Benjamin Müller
Why in-car gaming is more than entertainment As 2026 unfolds, in-car gaming is emerging as a proving ground for SDVs, exposing which OEMs can translate digital architecture into tangible user experiences. This overview examines how different manufacturers approach gaming as a platform feature, cloud service or architectural showcase. Ronja Schmiedchen
China bans hidden car door handles China is drawing a line: for safety reasons, the country will ban hidden and deployable door handles from 2027. Vehicle doors must be mechanically operable from both inside and outside. Manufacturers will be required to retrofit affected models by 2029. Benjamin Müller
Why vehicle connectivity is often expensive and opaque Connectivity comes at a price. Drivers who use connected services in their cars are increasingly being charged, often without clear information on costs, durations or long-term implications. Holger Holzer
GlobalLogic and Elektrobit strengthen SDV platforms GlobalLogic, a Hitachi Group company, has announced a strategic expansion of its long-standing partnership with Elektrobit. The extended alliance aims to accelerate the development and market adoption of next generation SDV platforms. Jessica Mouchegh
How far does the new S-Class software update go? Mercedes-Benz has updated the S-Class with a clear focus on software. MB.OS, over-the-air updates and AI-based functions are intended to modernise the flagship. The decisive question is how far this transformation goes beyond incremental digital refinement. Ronja Schmiedchen
Where academia and industry meet in vehicle simulation Graz University of Technology (TU) and Magna have unveiled a new Advanced Driving Simulation Center featuring one of the most sophisticated driving simulators currently in operation. The facility supports research ranging from e-mobility to automated driving. Götz Fuchslocher
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
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
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
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
Audi sharpens driver assistance and cockpit experience across key models Audi is introducing a comprehensive digital and hardware refresh for several PPE- and PPC-based vehicles. The update focuses on smarter assistance systems, revised user interfaces and expanded in-car entertainment features. ADT editorial team
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
“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
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
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
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
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
“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
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
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
„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
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
“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
Volkswagen brings Pac-Man into the vehicle Volkswagen is further expanding the gaming offering in selected models. From now on, Pac-Man is available to play on the infotainment display in the parked vehicle via the optional In-Car app AirConsole. The smartphone serves as the controller. 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
BMW and Alibaba Deepen Strategic Partnership in China BMW and Alibaba announced an expanded partnership in China, accelerating the integration of Alibaba’s Qwen large language model into BMW’s Neue Klasse models. This collaboration is part of BMW’s strategy of increasing cooperation with Chinese tech companies. Benjamin Müller
Nio Introduces New Vehicle API With the new Vehicle API, Nio aims to create a platform that efficiently connects vehicles with third-party apps and energy systems. It is intended to provide easy integration and new opportunities for smart mobility solutions. Ronja Schmiedchen
These are the Vehicle Displays of the Future Large display tablets in automobiles are a thing of the past. The next generation of infotainment relies on screens that stretch across the entire width of the vehicle. Wolfgang Gomoll
How acoustics in vehicles become a selling point In Ilmenau, audio experts met during the "Acoustic Day" organized by Fraunhofer IDMT to discuss the future of interior acoustics. Common denominator: The listening experience becomes a selling point. Nikolaus Fecht
Swedish Minimalism Safety has always been in Volvo's DNA. But how safe do the assistance systems of the EX30 feel? How user-friendly are they and what can the infotainment system do? Our practical test provides the answers. Timo Gilgen
