IDTechEx: significant confusion surrounds SDV core meaning | Computer Weekly

"Attempting a core definition of the SDV, the analysis says it serves as a catch-all phrase encompassing various technological advancements, from the evolution of electrical/electronic (E/E) architectures and decoupling software layers to reconfiguring operating systems. The analyst states that "simply put, if it involves flexible, software-driven deployment, it likely falls under the SDV umbrella", and notes that the automotive industry attributes the rise of SDVs to increasing consumer expectations, such as smarter functions, personalised experiences and "seamless" digital integration."

"For the past five years or so, there has been general consensus in the recognition of the emergence of the software-defined vehicle (SDV) as a trend that has no less than reshaped the automotive industry, yet a study from IDTechEx suggests that despite widespread use of the term, there remains significant confusion around its core meaning, structural elements and the real-world driving forces behind its current status."

Significant confusion surrounds the core meaning and structure of the software-defined vehicle, despite widespread use of the term and its industry impact. The SDV label functions as a catch-all for technological shifts including evolution of electrical/electronic (E/E) architectures, decoupling of software layers and reconfiguration of operating systems. Flexible, software-driven deployment defines most SDV features. Consumer expectations for smarter functions, personalized experiences and seamless digital integration are key adoption drivers. Consumer awareness of the deeper value of software-defined capabilities and over-the-air updates remains low, with demand currently focused on comfort and convenience features rather than advanced AI services. Deployment pathways, timelines, sales forecasts and hardware opportunities have been mapped.

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