Volkswagen makes its grand return to the world of software

It is fascinating to see how far the automotive giants are willing to go to avoid being outpaced by new players emerging like shooting stars. Volkswagen, the eternal roasted turkey of the industry, has decided to make its grand return to the world of software. Like an old uncle who shows up at the family gathering with risqué stories, this iconic brand is trying to forget its past mishaps. Those very issues that led to monumental delays in the launch of highly coveted models like the Audi Q6 E-tron or the Porsche Macan. But who do we blame? Technology has become an arena as chaotic as a cockfight, and VW now understands that it must arm itself again to navigate this battlefield.

A transformation under pressure

In a sector where competition is fiercer than ever, mastering embedded software and SDV platforms has become a true strategic challenge. As competitors like BMW, Ford, and the famous Chinese neo-manufacturers apply pressure, Volkswagen has taken the bold decision to restructure its Cariad division. Let's hope this maneuver pays off because time is of the essence! Promises of transformation must not vanish like the smoke from the exhaust of its diesel models.

Regaining control of the problem

With a touch of pessimism, one observes that Volkswagen has finally decided to take the reins by emphasizing faster development cycles and an internal approach. Peter Bosch, CEO of Cariad, speaks of a necessary internalization. But let’s be honest: so many promises to resemble a cliché of the automotive world in the age of AI, isn’t that a bit presumptuous? As a famous quote from the automotive world goes, “if it’s not moving forward, it’s moving backward,” and VW seems to finally want to get back in the saddle.

A strategic partnership for the future

Strategic partners are the new mantra. Volkswagen is turning to talented experts, including Bosch for anything related to automation and several other start-ups for a mix of know-how and technology. Concepts like the Carizon joint venture in China and the Volkswagen China Technology Company with Xpeng show that VW is looking to adapt to the realities of each market, much like a giraffe trying to blend into an Asian savanna.

Automotive in the digital age

It is undeniable that automotive software is becoming increasingly critical. Let us recall that last April, nine of the ten best-selling electric vehicles in Germany belonged to Volkswagen. This proves that there is still potential — or luck. Computing, ADAS, and even infotainment are now the daily business of an automaker. But at what cost? Because the restructuring of Volkswagen's software division coincides with an internal crisis: 1,600 layoffs within Cariad, a hard blow for a group desperately seeking to convince that it is not in decline.

The innovation dilemma

By revisiting its approach, Volkswagen is attempting to maintain technological control over its own software solutions. No more relying on outside companies for code, as that could turn into a fiasco. This somewhat recalls the abrupt turns taken by giants like Renault or Peugeot in a frantic quest to remain relevant in a digital world evolving at the speed of light.

For a bright future or a scramble?

Ultimately, the future of Volkswagen in this new digital universe remains uncertain. With ambitions such as creating the unique vw.os platform, determinism is in place, but the fears of missteps linger. As players like Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, and Nissan continue to advance, one can only hope that this is not just a flash in the pan. In the meantime, driving enthusiasts may well wonder if VW is losing its way...

Source: www.auto-infos.fr

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