Automotive manufacturer Stellantis has partnered with dSPACE, a simulation and validation solutions provider, to expedite cloud-based development of its vehicles.
The collaboration will see integration of dSPACE’s VEOS platform for Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) testing into Stellantis’ Virtual Engineering Workbench (VEW), which will enable faster and more scalable development of customer-focused features.
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The VEW is a tool that allows Stellantis engineers around the world to refine software early in the development process.
By leveraging virtual environments, they can develop, integrate, test, and optimise software up to a year before the actual hardware is available.
This integration is expected to reduce the time-to-market for new vehicle software, with the potential to deliver it in under two years, a substantial improvement over current timelines.
Stellantis noted that its software strategy is centered around three AI-powered technology platforms namely STLA Brain, STLA SmartCockpit, and STLA AutoDrive.
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By GlobalDataThese platforms, which are set to debut on select vehicles this year, were developed on the VEW and are designed to ensure agile feature delivery across the company’s 14 brands.
A key feature of the Stellantis VEW is the Virtual Cockpit, which is said to accelerate development cycles by up to 100 times faster than traditional approaches.
Stellantis chief software officer Yves Bonnefont said: “The integration of dSPACE tools into our Virtual Engineering Workbench will allow us to deliver innovative features faster, meeting customer expectations and enhancing their driving experience.
“This collaboration is pivotal in realizing our vision for intelligent, connected vehicles and providing customers with continuous improvements via over-the-air updates.”
The implementation of the proposed non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Stellantis and dSPACE is contingent upon the finalisation of a definitive agreement.
dSPACE CEO Carsten Hoff said: “The use of our products on the new Stellantis technology platforms enables us to gather direct customer input and feedback.
“This close collaboration will help us advance our software products and provide the most sophisticated and efficient tool chain for the validation of software-defined vehicles, enabling early integration and seamless combination of SIL and HIL test methods.”
Earlier this month, Stellantis announced One Equity Partners (OEP) completed a majority investment in Comau, specializing in industrial automation and robotics.
