Individual entertainment options, over-the-air updates, enhanced safety features, or the integration of the car into smart home systems: software defines the vehicle of tomorrow and offers OEMs a chance to stand out from the competition. The race has long begun, and Asian manufacturers are currently setting the pace. A crucial success factor: the integration of software and its components into the vehicle. This is where IAV comes into play.

Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs) offer numerous advantages and possibilities. They enable personalized driving experiences, where drivers can save their preferred seat positions, mirror settings, air conditioning settings, and music playlists. As soon as they enter the vehicle, the system recognizes the driver and automatically adjusts everything.

Another example is the ability to update vehicle software over the internet, similar to smartphones. New features, security updates, and performance improvements can be loaded directly into the vehicle without a visit to the workshop.

Integration and Homologation as Key Competencies

The SDV has given chip manufacturers like Qualcomm and Nvidia new significance and pushed the major Tier-1 suppliers into the background. At the same time, the need for support in the integration and homologation of components is increasing. "We ensure that new technologies are seamlessly integrated into existing systems and meet all legal requirements," says Sinning. Additionally, IAV helps OEMs adapt and optimize their development processes to meet the demands of the SDV. We assist in the implementation of standards and best practices to increase the efficiency and quality of development processes.

An example is the use of SDV technologies for virtual and automated development. This allows tests and validations to be carried out faster and more efficiently. As a result, test times can be reduced by 30 percent, leading to a faster market launch of new vehicle models.