Scaling Software-Defined Vehicles: From Vision to Reality
2:30 PM - 3:10 PMWed
MOA 12
Business Session Panel Session
Scheduled to Speak
Michael Niklas-Höret
Strategic Partnership Manager
Continental
Graham Smethurst
VP of E/E Architecture R&D
BMW Group
Mark Searle
Director of Product Management
Cosworth
Scott Lyons
Commercial & Strategic Partnerships, Connect & Engage, Ford Integrated Services
Ford
Maite Bezerra
Senior Principal Analyst
Wards Intelligence
Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs) are increasingly recognized as the next frontier in automotive innovation—a transformative shift that integrates advanced digital technologies throughout the entire vehicle value chain. However, despite the growing excitement and momentum, practical deployment remains a significant challenge, with only 4% of new vehicles sold in 2024 featuring true software-defined capabilities. This panel brings together automakers and Tier suppliers to critically assess the path from SDV concepts—largely inspired by technologies and practices from other industries, including data centers, cloud computing, and smartphones—to fully integrated, production-ready solutions for full-scale deployment. The discussion will focus on actionable strategies to overcome technological challenges, organizational barriers, and evolving business models, including shifts in supplier relationships.