Innovation Talk: the software revolution at Volkswagen

The arrival of new technologies applied to the development of the automotive industry has made software gain prominence. Everything is managed by a complex network of computer programs that ensure everything works efficiently. For these new elements, a great deal of work has been required to create suitable software for each one of them.

The evolution of the automotive sector, according to Volkswagen, is organized into four fundamental categories: the electrification of vehicles, specific software, new business models and autonomous driving. To work on all of this, the ACCELERATE program has been created, which aims to give a push towards the brand’s digitalization.

Software, the future of the automotive industry

Volkswagen is developing specific software for its new models, and the ACCELERATE program is proof of this. The development of these computer programs is an ongoing process, so errors are sought out and the necessary modifications are made so that everything works correctly. The importance of software is so great that if something fails, the car may stop working and even fail to start.

The hardware of the ID family

In most current cars, the various electronic functions are distributed across several cores spread throughout the car. In the models of the ID family, the most advanced hardware-software combination is used. All management is concentrated in the E3 platform, which stands for end-to-end.

This platform is organized into two high-performance computers, ICAS1 and ICAS3. This acronym stands for In Car Application Server, and its use improves the performance of the car’s various elements. Computer technology raises the performance of the hardware and software, and its use can be optimized in managing the operation of the electric vehicle.

In the case of vehicles in the ID family, these initially ran on the ID. Software 1.0 software, which was updated to ID Software 2.0 at the end of 2020, and the ID Software 2.1 is currently being installed. All models, including the older Volkswagen ID.3, have been updated through intervention at the workshop.

The most recent versions feature over-the-air updates, that is, without the need for a cable to transmit data. In this way, when a new update is available, it can be carried out quickly and without needing to visit the workshop. This system also allows new features to be added.

Gradually, the different Volkswagen models will incorporate this more up-to-date software, and the brand’s intention is to offer the latest innovations to new models, whatever they may be, and if they are equipped with wireless updating. Thus, the addition of new functionalities will be within reach of most drivers of Volkswagen vehicles.