Stellantis and dSPACE Collaborate on Smarter Vehicle Tech
Stellantis, one of the world’s top automakers, has joined forces with dSPACE, a global leader in simulation and validation solutions, to fast-track the development of cloud-based vehicle technologies. The partnership, announced through a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), supports a shared commitment to innovation in the automotive sector.
Accelerating development with advanced tools
The collaboration integrates dSPACE’s VEOS platform for Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) testing into Stellantis’ Virtual Engineering Workbench (VEW).
The integration empowers Stellantis engineers to refine software designs earlier in development, utilising virtual environments to test, optimise and integrate new features up to a year before physical hardware becomes available.
Using VEOS, Stellantis can perform 80-85% of its testing on SIL platforms, adopting continuous integration and testing methodologies.
The approach enables the automaker to deliver new vehicle software in less than two years, significantly reducing time to market while enhancing product quality and customer satisfaction.
Innovative platforms for smarter driving
At the core of Stellantis’ software strategy are three AI-powered technology platforms: STLA Brain, STLA SmartCockpit and STLA AutoDrive. The platforms, set to debut on select vehicles in 2025, ensure the seamless delivery of innovative features across Stellantis’ 14 iconic brands. The VEW plays a pivotal role in the development of these platforms, accelerating feature delivery and improving customers' driving experience.
Commitment to customer-centric innovation
Yves Bonnefont, Chief Software Officer, Stellantis highlighted the importance of the partnership, stating:
“Integrating dSPACE tools into our Virtual Engineering Workbench will allow us to deliver innovative features faster, meeting customer expectations and enhancing their driving experience.
The collaboration is pivotal in realising our vision for intelligent, connected vehicles and providing customers with continuous improvements via over-the-air updates.”
A proven partner in simulation and validation
With headquarters in Paderborn, Germany, dSPACE has established itself as a trusted partner in vehicle development. Its comprehensive portfolio spans simulation and validation solutions, engineering consulting and training services.
With more than 2,800 employees globally, dSPACE supports clients in automotive, aerospace and industrial automation, helping manufacturers test software and hardware components long before new models hit the road.
Carsten Hoff, CEO of dSPACE, highlighted the impact of the collaboration:
“Using our products on the new Stellantis technology platforms enables us to gather direct customer input and feedback.
The close collaboration will help us advance our software products and provide the most sophisticated and efficient tool chain for validating software-defined vehicles, enabling early integration and seamless combination of SIL and HIL test methods.”
Accelerating vehicle development
The Stellantis VEW includes a first-of-its-kind Virtual Cockpit, accelerating development cycles up to 100 times compared to traditional methods. With over 3,800 active, unique daily users, the VEW exemplifies Stellantis’ commitment to innovation, sustainability and high-quality customer experiences.
While implementing the non-binding MOU is subject to a definitive agreement, the collaboration between Stellantis and dSPACE signals a new era in automotive innovation.
By leveraging cutting-edge simulation and validation tools, the two companies aim to redefine how vehicles are developed, delivering smarter, connected and customer-focused solutions at an unprecedented pace.
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