Taking Software Defined Vehicles to the next level

The landscape of vehicle utility is rapidly evolving, driven by consumer demands for more integrated and intelligent vehicles. Modern vehicles are no longer mere transportation means; they are becoming extensions of our digital lives. According to Amol Sawant, Senior Manager Product Marketing and Technical Pre-Sales at Sibros, the push for data-driven design and product engineering excellence is resulting in vehicles that are not only more efficient and safer but also highly adaptive to individual preferences and needs. “As the calendar marks the beginning of a new year, we can expect to see even more innovative connected vehicle use cases,” he says.

Revolutionising vehicle health & performance

Vehicle reliability and safety have taken center stage in the automotive industry. With advancements in vehicle diagnostics and risk mitigation, there's a growing focus on predictive maintenance and service planning. The early detection of potential issues not only reduces downtime and ensures a safer driving experience, but also mitigates costs associated with unexpected repairs, warranty issues, and recalls. Automakers who adopt automotive OTA solutions that support these capabilities will be able to offer end-users more reliable and enduring vehicles, thereby increasing brand loyalty and annual revenue.

Additionally, the integration of synchronous monitoring and control systems in manufacturing has led to vehicles that are not only more efficient but also offer superior performance. Rather than uncovering issues post-production, automakers can identify and remedy faults during vehicle development and testing to ultimately create better-performing vehicles. In the coming year, having a solution in place that can support and facilitate performance optimisation will prove crucial for automakers to stay ahead in the market.

Customisation at your fingertips

Over the last several years there has been a broader trend towards customised consumer experiences. “So, it should come as no surprise that consumers also desire the ability to personalise their vehicle beyond aspects such as colour, interior, and transmission type,” says Sawant.

According to him, more and more original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are looking for ways to expand their range of personalisation options, from ambient lighting to adaptive driving modes and cockpit pre-conditioning. This shift will not only enhance the driving experience but will also allow manufacturers to cater to a diverse customer base with varied preferences.

Pioneering new automotive business models

The automotive industry is witnessing a paradigm shift with the introduction of new business models. From subscription-based services to on-demand vehicle features and shared ownership models, these trends offer fresh revenue streams and opportunities for engagement. Not only do automakers have an opportunity to explore these new avenues, but also to redefine the overall ownership experience. However, many of these models depend on having full-vehicle connectivity, a feature that most legacy automakers still struggle to support. While most OEMs have some form of connected vehicle solution, most are limited in their scope, sophistication, and reliability.

Interactive and informed customer engagement

The rise of digital technologies has fundamentally transformed customer engagement in the automotive sector. In an era where instant information and personalisation are the norms, today’s consumers expect a more interactive and informed relationship with their vehicles and manufacturers. This expectation is not just about having advanced features; it's about creating an ecosystem where the vehicle becomes a hub of personalised experiences and services.

To support this trend, automakers are increasingly turning to embedded sensors and telematics to enable a new level of vehicle monitoring and feedback. “Technologies such as Sibros Deep Connected Platform can provide real-time data on vehicle performance, maintenance needs, and driving patterns; as well as remote updates for the latest features, software versions, and bug fixes,” says Sawant.

 Furthermore, automakers are leveraging automotive OTA to offer personalised services, such as customised insurance rates based on driving behaviors and tailored maintenance plans that align with a driver’s usage patterns.

Empowering OEMs with connected platform

The role of connected vehicle platforms in driving innovation and meeting diverse consumer needs is undeniable. “For that to happen, we have befitting technologies and solutions. For instance, Sibros' Deep Connected Platform, with its suite of connected vehicle products – Deep Updater, Deep Logger, and Deep Commander – is ideally positioned to support these use cases,” adds Sawant.

Moreover, the flexible and adaptable system can perform a variety of tasks. The product suite can enable the following jobs.

• Deep Updater facilitates seamless and secure over-the-air (OTA) updates, ensuring vehicles are always equipped with the latest features and security patches.
• Deep Logger offers comprehensive data logging capabilities, providing invaluable insights into vehicle performance and usage patterns. “Fleet managers can optimise routes, schedule maintenance proactively, and improve fuel efficiency,” says Sawant.
• Deep Commander allows for advanced diagnostics and control, enabling proactive maintenance and enhanced vehicle management.

Way ahead

Continued improvements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and sensor technologies will enhance the capabilities of SDVs. Together, these products provide a robust and versatile solution, empowering OEMs to meet the challenges of 2024 and beyond.