The Future of Software-Defined Vehicles

In this episode, the discussion centers on the rapid shift in automotive technology toward software-defined vehicles (SDVs). This evolution is marked by a change in consumer preferences, moving away from traditional metrics like horsepower and acceleration to prioritizing comfort, connectivity, safety, and sustainability. Rudi Ostermann, VP and CTO for Global Automotive at TE Connectivity, sheds light on how these changes influence vehicle design and the automotive industry overall, particularly in response to recent trends observed at the Shanghai Motor Show.

Main Points:
1. The shift in consumer behavior towards valuing software-defined features like connectivity, safety, and upgradability over traditional vehicle performance metrics.
2. The transition from subsystem-based vehicle design to a more integrated, software-centric approach reshapes vehicle architecture and component requirements.
3. Challenges and opportunities in the design and production of SDVs, focusing on reliability, efficiency, sustainability, and the need for advanced electronics and circuitry.

Rudi Ostermann has dedicated his career to the automotive industry, working with major OEMs for several decades, including the last nine years at TE Connectivity. His insights are grounded in deeply understanding the industry's evolution and emerging trends.