Methodology: Every two weeks we collect most relevant posts on LinkedIn for selected topics and create an overall summary only based on these posts. If you´re interested in the single posts behind, you can find them here: https://linktr.ee/thomasallgeyer. Have a great read!
If you prefer listening, check out our podcast summarizing the most relevant insights from Next-Gen Vehicle Intelligence CW 51 - 02:
Software Defined to AI defined
SDV evolved into AI defined vehicle thinking, where learning systems and data loops shape behavior over static code
Zonal and central compute architectures simplified wiring and enabled higher bandwidth, preparing cars for richer software services
Commercial fleet use cases grounded SDV economics in uptime, TCO, and feature delivery instead of abstract app stores
Multiple voices warned that weak architecture and execution, not missing tools, will cause SDV programs to fail
AI and Compute
AI agents running on automotive grade processors were positioned as the engine of personalized in car experiences
Platforms like Snapdragon Ride Flex and Digital Chassis unified sensing, infotainment, and connectivity for AI intensive workloads
OEMs tested conversational assistants as a new interface for navigation, comfort settings, and service interactions
Quantum computing appeared on the horizon as a future differentiator for complex optimization and simulation tasks
Safety and ADAS
Correct sensor placement and calibration were highlighted as foundational to any credible ADAS performance promise
Consolidation in ADAS and autonomy suppliers aimed to replace fragmented stacks with integrated, software centric platforms
Long term OEM supplier deals, such as global ADAS programs, underlined the scale and safety focus needed to 2028 and beyond
Regulatory moves toward Level 3 approval demonstrated that authorities are ready to shift responsibility to systems in defined domains
Cybersecurity, Data Protection, and Risk Management catch up with SDV
Data protection in connected vehicles was framed as an end to end governance and architecture challenge
Traditional threat modeling was criticized as too static for continuously updated, highly connected vehicle platforms
SDV connectivity was recognized as expanding the attack surface, particularly through remote features and keyless access
European competitiveness was linked to combining software ambition with robust cybersecurity and industrial adaptation
Products and Experiences
New EVs and hybrids showcased intelligence through comfort features, cockpit experiences, and mass market access to advanced tech
Intelligent cockpits and immersive interfaces treated vehicles as digital devices where entertainment and productivity become core value
Augmented reality and interactive experiences extended the vehicle brand into virtual environments and everyday city life
Hardware choices in electric motors and drivetrains were revisited as strategic levers in an intelligence driven product mix
Ecosystems
Co engineering and joint solution building emerged as the default model for complex SDV and AI programs
Chipmakers, cloud providers, and OEMs used partnerships to prove integrated stacks at major showcases and industry events
Open communities and API platforms created shared spaces for SDV tools, datasets, and software agents
Open source coalitions, including Linux based efforts, aimed to standardize core layers of the automotive software stack
Aftersales and Lifecycle
Sustainable aftersales was repositioned around trust, proactive communication, and data driven service recommendations
Predictive maintenance in connected vehicles was used to cut downtime and redefine contractual service models
Engineering led production and validation were stressed as prerequisites for delivering reliable over the air features over many years
Service partners highlighted gaps in software development and testing capabilities at suppliers and offered structured support
Market Dynamics
Europe’s fragmented market required sharply localized product, pricing, and go to market strategies for vehicle intelligence
Competitive pressure from Chinese manufacturers increased, supported by rising volumes and aggressive tech centric positioning
German market snapshots showed incumbents still leading while new brands and formats steadily reshaped buyer expectations
2025 was repeatedly described as an inflection point where regulatory, cost, and innovation pressures converge
Operating Models
Strategic archetypes for automotive players ranged from vertically integrated tech leaders to lean orchestrators of partner ecosystems
Software intensity in development and operations turned OEMs and suppliers into de facto software companies
New engineering hubs and digital transformation centers underlined the importance of external IT and cloud partners
Integrated mobility systems, not isolated vehicles, were seen as the endgame, requiring global collaboration on safety and governance
Want to see the posts voices behind this summary?
This week’s roundup (CW 51 - 02) brings you the Best of LinkedIn on Next-Gen Vehicle Intelligence:
→ 125 handpicked posts that cut through the noise
→ 63 fresh voices worth following
→ 1 deep dive you don’t want to miss