The partnership reflects the ambition of both companies to strengthen collaboration across markets and support future mobility development in a rapidly changing global automotive landscape.

Under the agreement, Autoliv and Xpeng will expand collaboration across several key areas, including technology development, digitalization, supply chain coordination, sustainability and global business expansion, combining Autoliv’s worldwide safety expertise with Xpeng’s innovation in smart electric mobility.

The companies say the partnership is designed to enhance system-level collaboration and improve innovation efficiency as the industry continues to evolve through electrification, connectivity and globalization.

“Xpeng is striving to explore the future of mobility, and Autoliv is proud to support that journey. As vehicles become smarter, safety must be integrated from the very beginning. This agreement reflects our shared commitment to innovation and safety, combining Xpeng’s innovation in smart mobility with Autoliv’s global safety expertise to help make the next generation of mobility safer,” said Mikael Bratt, president and CEO of Autoliv.

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The agreement reflects the growing role of high-fidelity simulation in motorsport engineering, as testing restrictions, cost pressures and program complexity increase across the industry.

Dynisma CEO Graeme Cook said, “Dallara’s engineering philosophy places huge value on understanding vehicle behavior and driver perception, and we are proud to support that approach as technical partner. The DMG‑360XY platform is designed to be trusted as a primary engineering tool, and this multi-simulator agreement reflects a shared commitment to realism, correlation and long-term technical excellence.”

As part of the partnership, Dallara will deploy two DMG-360XY simulators across its European and US operations. The first system is scheduled for installation at Dallara’s global headquarters in Varano de’ Melegari, Italy, during Q4 2026, with a second simulator planned for delivery to its Indianapolis facility in Q1 2027.

The DMG 360XY is Dynisma’s most advanced motion system, used by Formula 1, GT and endurance racing organizations. It combines ultra-low latency (under 5ms) with high-bandwidth response exceeding 100Hz, unlimited 360° yaw rotation and 5m of XY travel, delivering sustained motion cues without washouts or motion recentering.

By adopting identical simulator platforms across its Italian and US engineering facilities, Dallara will establish a consistent simulation environment supporting correlation, collaborative development and repeatable results across vehicle programs, driver work and longer-term research.

Andrea Pontremoli, CEO and general manager, Dallara, said, “High fidelity simulation is a strategic asset for our group. Establishing identical, top-of-the-range motion platforms in Italy and the USA supports continuity across our engineering programs and strengthens confidence in how virtual development informs real-world performance.”

Luca Bergianti, director of vehicle dynamics and performance at Dallara, said, “At Dallara, virtual development is becoming central to how we engineer our vehicles. The vehicle model now acts as the key integrator of all disciplines, allowing us to validate technical choices in a virtual environment before producing physical components.

“Advanced simulators embed virtual tools into the engineering process, helping us improve performance, uncover opportunities and anticipate issues early on. Dallara’s choice of Dynisma as a partner reflects this shared vision, as we push high-fidelity simulation, realism and development efficiency to the next level.”

As well as supporting internal development, the simulator platforms will form part of Dallara’s wider engineering infrastructure, covering long-term vehicle development, research and selected collaborative programmes.

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The 9,460ft2  site at Book End merges Nio’s former UK facilities at Begbroke Science Park and Bicester Motion into a single unit, comprising a dedicated CAE workspace and vehicle laboratory. The R&D center will support closer collaboration across the UK team and provide a more spacious and efficient base for future vehicle development work as the Chinese auto maker marks 10 years of R&D in the UK.

Danilo Teobaldi, principal chief engineer, Nio, said, “Bringing our virtual and physical UK engineering teams together in Witney will accelerate the development of innovations that improve the user experience. With new facilities, we can ensure Nio’s UK-based team continues to pioneer in areas such as class-leading Euro NCAP results for all three group brands, along with smart chassis system solutions for our global platforms.”

Ten years of innovation

In 2016, Nio established its global R&D center for performance and advanced concept engineering in Oxfordshire. Over the past decade, the operation has supported its global vehicle development programs, from the EP9 electric supercar launched in 2016, through to the Nio ET9, its smart executive flagship EV. Its engineers in the UK have also worked on the development of Nio’s third brand, Firefly, and its first compact EV.

Hui Zhang, vice president, Nio Europe, said, “For a decade, our Oxfordshire team has been an integral part of Nio’s global R&D network, contributing to multiple vehicle programs and engineering innovations across our global portfolio. As we celebrate this milestone, we thank the team for its dedication, expertise and contribution to Nio’s development over the past 10 years. The opening of our new Witney R&D center reflects our long-term commitment to the UK, Europe and international collaboration in advancing smart electric mobility.”

The center will facilitate CAE, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), simulation, safety, Euro NCAP safety assessments, durability, handling and noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) developments. It will also serve as Nio Europe’s focal point for artificial intelligence regulation and representation within the International Organisation of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers’ (OICA) AI Cluster through the SMMT. Additionally, the team will contribute to EU policy and regulatory engagement through UNECE working groups and industry consultations.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, commented, “This investment highlights the UK’s enduring strength as a center of automotive collaboration and engineering excellence. Nio’s decision to consolidate its R&D activity here in a new, state of the art facility also reflects the depth of British talent and expertise in next-generation vehicle technologies.

“It is a timely reminder that amid fierce global competition for investment, the UK can continue to attract and grow high-value innovation, supporting jobs, skills and the transition to zero-emission mobility.”

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“From technological innovation to the localization of manufacturing and R&D across Europe, supported by a truly global product line-up, MG continues to push the boundaries of what is possible – making advanced technology and sustainable mobility accessible to more people than ever before,” said William Wang, managing director, MG UK and Europe.

The site will integrate vehicle research and development, advanced manufacturing, core component supply and intelligent logistics operations, forming a fully connected, end-to-end industrial ecosystem. This platform will significantly expand localized production and sourcing, strengthening the resilience, responsiveness and agility of MG’s European supply chain.

MG will deepen collaboration with leading European technology partners, research institutions and local suppliers to accelerate innovation across key future-facing domains, including next-generation battery technology, intelligent mobility systems and clean energy solutions.

This announcement comes at a pivotal moment for the European automotive industry, as the EU’s 2035 zero-emission targets continue to accelerate the shift toward electrified mobility.

Wang said, “Through our ‘In Europe, For Europe’ strategy, we are not simply responding to the future of mobility – we are helping define it. By investing in local capabilities, strengthening our European footprint and fostering a more competitive automotive ecosystem, we are accelerating Europe’s journey toward a cleaner, smarter and more sustainable mobility future.”

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Kessels has more than 20 years of experience within the Volkswagen Group, a PhD in mechanical engineering from the North West University in South Africa, and four years as director of R&D at FAW‑Volkswagen China. For more than a decade, he has contributed to the VW Group’s electrification journey, including the development of advanced battery systems. In line with the new brand group Core governance model, he will report to Markus Haupt, CEO of SEAT and Cupra, as well as to Kai Grünitz, member of the brand group Core board of management responsible for technical development.

Haupt said, “We are excited to welcome Joost Kessels for this new chapter. His strong technical background and deep experience in the group, including his role in China, make him the right leader to drive this next phase for our company. While we continue to lead the Electric Urban Car Family on behalf of the Volkswagen Group, we will now also start taking over the leadership of the electric MEB21 platform. A clear recognition of our work and demonstration of how much potential lies ahead for our company and the Iberian Peninsula.”

With the electric MEB21 platform, SEAT and Cupra will, for the first time in its history, assume the leadership of the technical development of a group platform. This mandate marks a significant milestone for the company further consolidating its responsibility for the region and strengthening its role within the group.

Grünitz commented, “I am very happy that Joost Kessels will take on responsibility for the development of SEAT and Cupra. With lean structures and accelerated decision-making processes, we will elevate development across the BGC-network to a new level. Our focus will be on achieving highly competitive development timelines and costs.”

Vehicles built on the MEB21 platform include the Cupra Raval and Volkswagen ID Polo, produced in Martorell, Spain; the ID Cross and Škoda Epiq, produced in Navarra, Spain; among others. The MEB21 platform, developed within the MEB+ matrix, debuts a new front‑wheel‑drive architecture with a highly efficient electric drive that cuts complexity, components and weight.

Haupt added, “I would also like to express my sincere gratitude to Werner Tietz, who has played a decisive role in making the Electric Urban Car Family project a success. I’ve truly enjoyed working with him, and I know it will be a special moment for him to see the CUPRA Raval on the streets this year. His contribution has left a lasting mark on our company.”

Related, Randle Engineering strengthens team with vehicle dynamics specialist Javier Maruenda

Maruenda brings a wealth of experience including more than nine years in vehicle dynamics, covering both passenger and commercial vehicles across multiple global OEMs, with specialist knowledge in multibody dynamics, simulation model creation, kinematics and compliance optimization, active chassis systems, vehicle testing, calibration and validation.

Most recently, he served as vehicle dynamics principal engineer at an automotive technology business where he was involved in developing software‑defined, zero‑emission vehicle platforms, integrating advanced drive and control systems. This involved both physical and simulation-based vehicle dynamics validation.

Prior to that, he held roles at Tata Motors European Technical Centre, Jaguar Land Rover and Idiada where he was heavily involved in ADAMS model development, target setting, objective and subjective benchmarking, procedural development, R&D leadership and technical training delivery.

Maruenda is currently completing an MSc in maths and computing engineering, specializing in numerical methods and dynamic systems modeling.

“Randle combines serious engineering intelligence with a genuinely welcoming culture, which is a rare and powerful mix,” he said. “The first‑principles mindset and cross‑sector work make it an inspiring place to think, test and build ideas. I’m delighted to be joining the team and contributing to what comes next.”

Peter Benzie, engineering manager at Randle Engineering, commented, “We are thrilled to bring Javier into the team. He is a fantastic fit with his technical ability, inquisitive nature and collaborative skills. Known for his questioning approach and desire to truly understand the mathematics behind every problem, he brings a rare depth of analytical thinking to his work in vehicle dynamics, modeling and advanced control. This mindset significantly underpins our capability and reflects our commitment to delivering intellectually rigorous consultancy across automotive, defence, aerospace, robotics and beyond.”

The company said it has had a strong start to 2026 with numerous new engineering projects secured. 

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AGL SoDeV is an open-source reference platform for building software-defined vehicles. It combines the AGL Unified Code Base (UCB) with Linux containers, VirtIO, the Xen hypervisor, Zephyr RTOS and other Linux Foundation projects in a single pre-integrated package that runs on automotive systems-on-a-chip (SoCs), on virtual machines or in the cloud. SoDeV enables auto makers and suppliers to decouple software development from hardware availability, accelerating SDV time-to-market.

As the automotive industry moves toward software-defined vehicles (SDVs), demand is increasing for shared, open-source software platforms. AGL brings together auto makers, Tier 1 suppliers and technology companies to develop and maintain a common software stack to reduce fragmentation, shorten development timelines and support innovation across vehicle systems.

The addition of EMQ, Lineo Solutions, MediaTek, VA Linux Systems Japan and Very Good Ventures expands AGL’s expertise across areas including automotive semiconductors, connectivity, Linux engineering, in-vehicle user interfaces and embedded software tools that support large-scale SDV development.

“We’re excited to welcome these new members to the AGL community, each of which brings distinct and valuable expertise to the table,” said Dan Cauchy, executive director of Automotive Grade Linux. “The ecosystem around our SoDeV reference platform continues to grow, reflecting the breadth of innovation that open-source collaboration makes possible. The automotive industry is undergoing a fundamental shift to software-defined vehicles, and AGL is proud to be at the center of it.”

Available in latest AGL software release

An initial version of the AGL SoDeV reference platform is available in the latest AGL UCB software release, Ultimate Unagi, enabling developers to build and test an SDV system on Renesas Sparrow Hawk reference boards and cloud-based processor environments.

Announced in December 2025, the AGL SoDeV Reference Platform combines the AGL Unified Code Base (UCB) with multiple open-source projects hosted by the Linux Foundation to support the consolidation of ECUs, hardware abstraction through virtualization, and cloud integration for software-defined vehicles.

“The AGL platform represents exactly the kind of production-focused, community-driven approach to SDV software that our customers and partners need,” added Masahiro Sano, the chairman and CEO of Lineo Solutions.

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The combination of the technologies developed by Univrses and Pirelli will deliver vehicles that are “safer and more performant”, the companies said, with potential applications in ADAS and autonomous driving systems. The solution will also deliver timely, relevant and actionable data, for a range of road management use cases. Insights will enable road authorities to make better decisions and deploy resources more effectively, potentially reducing road-related accidents and saving lives.

The technologies use onboard cameras and tires to collect data that provide vital feedback on road conditions. Pirelli Cyber Tyre processes the information collected using the company’s proprietary software and algorithms, and communicates in real time with the vehicle’s electronics and with the cloud, enhancing a car’s safety systems and enabling the monitoring of road infrastructure status.

Univrses has adapted its technology, originally developed for vehicle perception, to enable AI-based road monitoring. It’s 3DAI solution is an AI system that digitizes city and roadside infrastructure using data from vehicle-mounted sensors such as cameras; and its 3DAI Engine provides autonomous vehicles with perception capabilities including 3D positioning, 3D mapping and spatial deep learning.

In 2025, Pirelli and the Puglia Region launched the first project based on this partnership, with a monitoring system for the regional road network creating an up-to-date map of infrastructure conditions. The system provides analyses based on data collected by tires and processed through the Cyber Tyre platform, together with visual data collected via cameras and interpreted using Univrses technology.

Pirelli chief executive officer Andrea Casaluci said, “The agreement with Univrses further enhances our Cyber Tyre platform, thanks to advanced AI‑based artificial vision technologies. The collaboration between Pirelli and Univrses will make a significant contribution to the ongoing transformation of cars into true software‑defined vehicles.”

Univrses CEO Jonathan Selbie added, “Continuous monitoring and data are becoming the new foundation for infrastructure asset management, and Univrses technology is able to provide powerful analytical capabilities based on reliable and frequently updated data. In this context, we are pleased to welcome Pirelli as an investor and to take our partnership to the next level: we will join forces to deliver increasingly advanced services and products.”

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When Hyundai Mobis required a reliable test solution to verify its Hybrid eCall system, the company selected Anritsu for its proven expertise in automotive communication testing.

As the automotive industry transitions from the conventional eCall emergency call system operating on 2G and 3G networks, where vehicles automatically contact emergency services in the event of an accident, to the next-generation (NG) eCall system using 4G networks, Hybrid eCall is crucial in bridging the gap.

Hyundai Mobis has adopted Hybrid eCall and overcome significant challenges, including acquiring test equipment, mastering the advanced 4G and 5G mobile protocols required for call initiation, and addressing the limitations of network simulation environments in the early stages of development.

Anritsu’s eCall Tester MX703330E and Signalling Tester MD8475B provided an effective solution to these challenges. By establishing a comprehensive test environment and using automated conformance testing and log analysis functions, Hyundai Mobis promptly identified the root causes of operational issues. Furthermore, sharing the test environment between the development and verification teams improved consistency, reliability and operational efficiency.

Hyundai Mobis integrates Hybrid eCall functionality into its data connectivity unit (DCU). Conformance testing is conducted to EU regulations and ETSI (European Telecommunications Standards Institute) standards to verify the system’s functionality across various network conditions as well as ensuring interoperability with public safety answering points (PSAPs).

In addition, Hyundai Mobis was required to design test scenarios, perform error analysis, prepare detailed test reports and develop technical verification documents necessary for certification. These processes were supported by Anritsu’s simulation and functional testing capabilities.

There were two primary reasons why the company selected Anritsu’s test solution.

First, it enables comprehensive Hybrid eCall testing with an all-in-one tester. Previously, separate testers were required to verify Hybrid eCall, NG eCall and eCall. By integrating Anritsu’s MX703330E software-based tester with the MD8475B hardware tester, all three types of eCall functionality can be tested using a single solution. This integration reduced initial investment requirements and operational workload, improving overall verification efficiency.

The second reason was enhanced collaboration and efficiency using the same test environment as the development team. This alignment facilitated accurate issue reproduction and streamlined root cause analysis. Additionally, Anritsu’s clear setup documentation contributed to more efficient software updates and debugging activities.

With Anritsu’s technical support, Hyundai Mobis teams gained early access to the MX703330E, MD8475B and beta firmware versions. This enabled them to verify Hybrid eCall‑related software updates prior to official release, and perform conformance testing during the development stage.

Anritsu’s test solution also helped Hyundai Mobis build expertise in 4G and 5G mobile communications and Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) signaling. Analyzing the operation of the SIP using the sequence log feature provided a practical understanding. Furthermore, the setup procedures were based on the provided manuals, and network simulations were repeatedly conducted with on-site support and phone consultations with Anritsu’s staff. With this support, the teams steadily acquired the knowledge of mobile communications required for eCall verification.

The teams also needed to simulate various network conditions. Using the handover and cell configuration features of the MX703330E and MD8475B, including signal strength control, ECL settings and service controls, they were able to effectively reproduce real-world network conditions. This enabled prompt and effective software verification.

Since implementing Anritsu’s test solution, compatibility between the DCU and the test environment has remained consistently high. The teams experienced no notable issues when integrating the product with existing hardware. The test environment was configured efficiently, and stable operation was achieved from the initial stage of deployment.

Hyundai Mobis has been able to conduct reliable, repeated testing in the laboratory, building a normal testing environment. It has also automated conformance testing and network simulations. Test scenarios were created using Anritsu’s SmartStudio Manager (SSM) MX847503A, which supports the generation of rapid and reliable test results, thereby contributing to improved development efficiency and product quality.

When issues arise, reviewing the sequence and message logs of the tester allows immediate determination of whether the problem is due to device settings or the hardware itself. This enables the verification team to provide accurate and timely feedback to the development team, reducing the time required for root cause analysis and problem resolution.

During the implementation process, Anritsu supported the teams from the program installation stage, which allowed them to establish the test environment smoothly. One unexpected issue was that the USIM card initially provided for the device was not compatible with performing the test eCalls required for functionality verification. Anritsu promptly provided a compatible USIM card, allowing the verification activities to continue without interruption. No additional compatibility issues were observed with the existing DCU verification setup.

Another challenge was the provision of a reporting tool, including testers’ logs. The initial conformance test reports could not be presented as objective evidence to certification bodies and relevant departments, necessitating further improvements. In response, Anritsu updated the reporting tool to create highly reliable reports that included logs from the MX703330E. As a result, verification results could be presented more clearly and convincingly.

Anritsu’s tester is stable and reliable, enabling the Hyundai Mobis teams to focus on analyzing hardware issues during the verification processes. On-site support and telephone and email communication from Anritsu – along with the manuals provided by Anritsu’s representatives – enabled the Hyundai Mobis teams to acquire the skills to operate the tester.

With Anritsu’s technical support, Hyundai Mobis plans to expand automation within its verification processes.

Beyond the eCall functions, the Anritsu test solution supports verification capabilities, including SMS transmission and throughput measurement. Although the details of these functions are still being finalized, Hyundai Mobis hopes to use them to increase the value of the equipment by broadening the scope of verification, enabling a more multifaceted analysis of product performance and, ultimately, contributing to the development of even higher-quality products.

Need to know

• Anritsu’s test solution enables comprehensive Hybrid eCall testing with an all-in-one tester
• Real-world network conditions can be reproduced, enabling effective software verification
• Hyundai Mobis recently sought a reliable partner to test its Hybrid eCall technology
• It chose Anritsu for the supplier’s expertise in automotive communications testing

During the pilot, ALLO demonstrated its ability to improve inbound logistics planning performance across TME’s complex European logistics network, reduce planning cycle times and support TME’s carbon neutrality objectives.

“The results of our pilot with Agillence have exceeded expectations,” said Jean-Christophe Deville, vice president of supply chain at TME. “ALLO has proven to be a strategic asset in our pursuit of a sustainable, cost-efficient logistics network across Europe. We are confident that this long-term partnership will continue to drive meaningful progress toward our carbon neutrality goals while delivering real operational value.”

“We are pleased to formalize our long-term relationship with Toyota Motor Europe,” said Srini Paruchuri, vice president of customer strategy and solutions at Agillence. “This partnership is a testament to the power of ALLO in addressing the unique logistics complexities of large-scale European automotive operations. We look forward to deepening our collaboration with TME as they continue to lead the industry in sustainable supply chain practices.”

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