Advancements in SDV Structures - Novel Developments, Obstacles, and Prospects
In the ever-evolving world of automotive technology, the focus is shifting towards promoting durable and sustainable technologies that are both economically and environmentally sensible. This is particularly true for Software Defined Vehicles (SDVs), a revolutionary concept that is set to redefine the automotive industry.
Germany, a powerhouse in the global automotive industry, is at the forefront of this change. Key players in the development of SDVs in Germany include OEMs like Mercedes-Benz Tech Innovation, Elektrobit, Schaeffler AG, DSA Daten- und Systemtechnik GmbH, CARIAD, and ZF Friedrichshafen AG. Notable leaders in this sphere include Matthias Zink, CEO Powertrain & Chassis at Schaeffler, and Thomas Stierle, CEO E-Mobility at Schaeffler.
Johannes Krieg, the Manager of Software-Defined Car at Mercedes-Benz Tech Innovation, is one of the pioneers driving this change. His daily responsibilities include working on the next generation of MB.OS car platforms, focusing on central ECUs and the middleware layer. Johannes and his team explore and implement new technologies for outstanding functionality and user experience.
The journey to SDVs involves more than just technical challenges; organizational changes are equally crucial. Embracing the change from domain-centric to zonal architecture necessitates a fundamental shift in how functions are developed. This shift is crucial for the future of vehicle development, as it harmonizes hardware and software.
As the technology continues to mature, OEMs must focus on functions for their customers and evaluate what differentiates them in the market from others. Customer needs continue to evolve, requiring innovative solutions. Integrating customer feedback is vital to developing products that meet and exceed expectations.
Innovation is the key to staying competitive in the rapidly changing automotive landscape. Chinese OEMs' focus on rapid innovation serves as a valuable lesson for global automakers, highlighting the importance of staying agile and responsive to market changes. The influx of Chinese vehicles and innovation has had a profound impact on the global automotive industry, reshaping expectations and encouraging a broader adoption of cutting-edge technologies and practices.
Looking ahead, technologies like mixed criticality and virtualization will redefine the landscape for SDVs, enabling more sophisticated and safer autonomous driving solutions. Virtualization, for instance, offers benefits such as dynamic resource allocation, improved system management, and enhanced security.
Johannes Krieg is excited about the potential of abstraction of automotive software layers, as it opens up innovation and allows for more efficient delivery of new functionalities. He will be discussing the challenges and opportunities of SDVs at the Automotive Cyber Security, Connectivity and SDV Week 2025.
In conclusion, the future of the automotive industry lies in embracing change and innovation. With leaders like Johannes Krieg at the helm, Germany is well-positioned to lead this transformation.
