In connected car news are, Elektrobit, Upstream, Rinf Tech, Nissan, Honda Pickups, Synopsys, ZF & Elektrobit.
In this Article
Elektrobit Launches EB tresos AutoCore
Elektrobit has introduced EB tresos AutoCore Light, a lightweight and modular software platform tailored for peripheral electronic control units (ECUs) like smart sensors and actuators. Designed to integrate into modern zonal and existing domain architectures, the new platform helps automakers reduce development complexity and R&D costs by up to 30%, according to internal testing.
Built on Elektrobit’s proven EB tresos AutoCore foundation, the software supports signal-based communication, is ASIL-B ready and CSMS certified, and is optimized for small microcontrollers (like Cortex M0+/M4F). Its modular architecture allows for flexible scaling and easy updates, making it ideal for OEMs aiming to streamline SDV strategies while maximizing code reuse and minimizing hardware requirements.
Upstream AI Report
Upstream, a leader in AI-driven automotive data platforms, has released a new report, Under Pressure, urging automakers to modernize after-sales quality strategies using connected vehicle data and artificial intelligence. The report highlights the limitations of traditional, reactive quality systems and underscores the need for proactive approaches as software-defined vehicles (SDVs) and electric vehicles (EVs) increase in complexity.
Analyzing over 5,000 recall campaigns and 30,000 NHTSA complaints, Upstream found that 70% of all recalls since 2020—and nearly 90% of EV-related recalls—could have been detected earlier with connected vehicle signals. The report also reveals that EVs, though only 10% of new U.S. registrations in 2024, are overrepresented in recalls due to their software-reliant architectures. However, these vehicles also provide ample real-time diagnostic data that, if properly utilized, could mitigate risks before escalation.
As global OEMs race to match the speed of Chinese EV makers—who release models up to 30% faster—shorter development cycles leave less time for thorough testing. Upstream stresses that scalable AI tools and modern data infrastructures are essential to detect issues early, reduce recall scope, and maintain customer trust in an increasingly digital automotive landscape.
Rinf Tech Joins COVESA
Global technology company Rinf Tech has officially joined the Connected Vehicle Systems Alliance (COVESA), a consortium focused on advancing open standards and collaboration in the connected and software-defined vehicle sector. With expertise in embedded systems, AI, IoT, and Fintech, Rinf Tech aims to contribute to initiatives such as vehicle edge computing, data interoperability, and in-car payment systems. The company’s membership strengthens COVESA’s mission to accelerate the digital transformation of mobility.
Nissan May Build Honda Pickups in U.S.
the move could mark a significant turnaround for Nissan, which has dramatically scaled back its U.S. production following a $4.5 billion loss in the last fiscal year. The potential collaboration builds on earlier discussions between the two automakers, including a possible merger and shared use of Nissan’s body-on-frame platforms for Honda’s entry into the larger truck market.
Centerville AI-Powered Recycling Trucks
Centerville, Ohio, has introduced a pilot program deploying recycling trucks equipped with artificial intelligence cameras to identify improper items in recycling bins in real-time. As each cart is emptied, the AI system flags contaminants such as plastic bags, foam packaging, food waste, and tangled cords—errors that can drive up processing costs and disrupt recycling operations.
When prohibited items are detected, residents receive personalized postcards outlining what should not have been included, along with guidance on correct recycling practices. City leadership emphasizes that reducing contamination will lower expenses and improve efficiency, with the program initially funded through a $74,945 Montgomery County Solid Waste District grant. Data collected during the early trial phase—supported by baseline dispatches and software training—will shape future program expansion.
This venture aligns with a growing trend among municipalities employing AI-driven solutions to monitor recycling quality and bolster environmental education. Similar systems have successfully cut contamination rates by up to 25%, according to studies, and provide real-time data that empowers cities to target and improve recycling behaviors.
Tata Elxsi and Synopsys Partner for SDV
Tata Elxsi and Synopsys have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on advanced virtualization solutions aimed at accelerating the development of software-defined vehicles. Announced during SNUG India 2025 in Bengaluru, the partnership focuses on integrating Tata Elxsi’s embedded systems expertise with Synopsys’ leading virtualization technology to deliver pre-verified virtual electronic control unit (vECU) solutions. These tools will help automotive OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers streamline software development, reduce costs, and de-risk production timelines.
The collaboration is already supporting several global customers in deploying vECUs and early-stage software validation across key vehicle domains such as powertrain, chassis, body control, and central compute. By enabling real-world simulation and minimizing the need for physical prototypes, the solution aims to improve quality and speed up time to market. The partnership also includes efforts to scale the use of electronics digital twins for multi-ECU systems and domain-specific applications.
Both companies emphasize that their joint solution addresses the automotive industry’s shift from hardware-centered to software-driven development. By simplifying complex system integration and offering flexible, scalable tools, the initiative is poised to help automakers transition more efficiently to next-generation vehicle architectures.
ZF Unveils Next-Gen Smart Chassis Sensor
ZF has introduced the next generation of its Smart Chassis Sensor, expanding its functionality beyond measuring wheel height to include three-dimensional acceleration detection. Already in production in the Cadillac CELESTIQ, the upgraded sensor is a key enabler of ZF’s “Chassis 2.0” strategy, offering real-time chassis health monitoring, force/load detection, and active noise cancellation. By capturing a broader range of vehicle dynamics directly from the ball joint, the sensor improves safety, maintenance alerts, and driving precision—particularly in steer-by-wire applications.
Part of ZF’s vision for intelligent, software-defined vehicles, the Smart Chassis Sensor plays a pivotal role in integrating high-precision sensing with actuators and digital features across the vehicle system. Its new “Chassis Health” function continuously monitors structural conditions and sends alerts, such as when loose wheel nuts are detected. The sensor can also estimate vehicle load to ensure legal weight limits are observed and help electric vehicles improve range accuracy through better trip planning.
With a compact, durable design and embedded accelerometer, the sensor minimizes the number of individual components needed, lowering cost and simplifying OEM integration. ZF’s innovation allows for seamless compatibility with existing systems like CDC damping, sMOTION, and Electromechanical Roll Control, while capturing road surface data for enhanced comfort and interior acoustics.