As will be true for other automakers, the Volvo Group has opened itself to new software suppliers through the AUTOSAR (AUTomotive Open System ARchitecture) standard, according to Anders Ydergård, senior vice president, vehicle research and development.

“AUTOSAR gives the automotive industry the possibility to combine software applications from one supplier with hardware from another supplier (similar to the way) different programs can be installed in a desktop PC,” Ydergård said, adding, “Traditionally, automotive OEMs have relied on suppliers delivering complete solutions…with built-in software and thereby less flexibility.

“Through the AUTOSAR cooperation…there is now a standard specifying a hardware-independent software interface. The relation with the hardware supplier will remain but as it will be possible to add any software, a wide range of new suppliers can enter the market -- from big suppliers in the telecom industry to small entrepreneurial companies.

The Volvo Group joined the AUTOSAR partnership in 2004 and now all embedded software development for vehicles developed by the Volvo Group will conform to the AUTOSAR standard.

“We currently are looking forward to a creative discussion with new and existing partners,” Ydergård said.