Comprehensive Overview: Opportunities and Challenges in the Digital Transformation of Automotive Software
Presented by Lars Dittmann - Vice President iNTACS e.V. - iNTACS.
From the recent Virtual Customer Conference, Lars Ditman, Vice President iNTACS e.V. - iNTACS. delivered an insightful keynote on the evolving role of software and digital innovation in the automotive sector. The session highlighted both opportunities and challenges faced by the industry, offering a comprehensive understanding of the digital transformation.
Key Themes Discussed
1. Historical Evolution of Automotive Software
Lars outlined the milestones in software development and integration in vehicles:
- From the first control units in 1982 to today’s high-performance computers (HPCs) in vehicles.
- The progression of complexity: over 10 million lines of code (LOC) and integrated systems for connected services.
2. Global Challenges and Industry Changes
The presentation emphasized the disruptive trends influencing the automotive landscape:
- Digital Transformation: Adoption of platforms, open-source solutions, and networked ecosystems.
- Regulatory Impact: Increasingly strict global legislation reshaping operational models.
- Elimination of Legacy Technologies: Transition from outdated technologies to innovative solutions like e-mobility and autonomous driving.
3. Technical Challenges in Software Development
Key technical hurdles identified included:
- Managing the complexity of multi-domain systems and integrating AI for autonomous driving.
- Addressing external dependencies: Lars highlighted examples such as data processing on non-EU platforms (e.g., Microsoft and Amazon).
4. Focus on Quality in Software Development
Lars stressed the importance of robust quality management frameworks:
- Product and Process Quality: Stability through structured management and defined objectives.
- Adherence to Standards: Utilization of methodologies like Automotive SPICE® and VDA guidelines to ensure quality across the lifecycle.
5. Automotive SPICE® as a Solution
The session highlighted how Automotive SPICE® addresses quality challenges:
- Frameworks for lifecycle planning and interdisciplinary cooperation.
- · Ensuring objective, independent quality assurance while maintaining alignment with development.
Key Takeaways
- The automotive industry must embrace digital transformation and align with emerging trends like AI and e-mobility.
- Quality assurance frameworks such as Automotive SPICE® are essential for navigating complex software systems.
- Organizations need to foster collaboration and invest in robust quality management to remain competitive.
Omnex’s Role in Supporting the Automotive Industry
- Integrated Training Programs: Courses on Automotive SPICE®, AI integration, and digital transformation.
- Consulting Services: Assisting in implementing structured quality management systems.
- Third-Party Certification: Supporting compliance with global standards through assessments and audits.
For tailored solutions and comprehensive training programs, contact Omnex. Transform your automotive software journey today!
Speaker
Lars Dittmann - Vice President iNTACS e.V. Lars Dittmann carried out the first software assessment at Volkswagen in 1999 and headed the Group's software quality assurance in Wolfsburg from 2001. As Automotive SPICE Principal Assessor, he carried out over 40 assessments and set up the assessment system for the Group's software suppliers. He was spokesman for the HIS working group “Process Assessment” and head of the VDA working group 13. In his function as IT manager, he was responsible for the first development of the PAM for ISO/IEC 20000 in 2012. After his assignment as Quality Manager at FAW-VW in Changchun until 2014, he was responsible for the operation of mobile online services at VW and then headed various cross functions for the development of driver assistance systems. He has been iNTACS Vice President since 2019 and Managing Director of iNTACS since 2022.