‘SDV Maturity Framework’ sets the roadmap for the auto industry’s software-defined future
Automotive technology company HERE Technologies, in collaboration with analyst firm Omdia, has unveiled the industry’s first data-driven “Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) Maturity Framework,” designed to bring clarity and shared language to the rapidly evolving world of software-driven mobility. As OEMs and suppliers wrestle with fragmented development approaches and mounting pressure to pivot from hardware-centred vehicles to software-first platforms, the framework offers four clearly defined stages—connected, augmented, adaptive and agentic—that chart a realistic path to the software-defined future.
According to the research underpinning the framework, based on a survey of 647 automotive experts across North America, Europe and Asia, most vehicle makers are now in Phase 1 – “Connected”, with full mass adoption expected in 2026-27. Phase 2 is described as “Augmented” (mass adoption by 2027-30) and focuses on ADAS enhancement, infotainment upgrades and early revenue diversification. Phase 3—“Adaptive”—(2030-35) represents the shift to evolving vehicle platforms with dynamic features and subscriptions. Finally, Phase 4—“Agentic”—(10+ years out) envisions fully digital lifecycle vehicles and services beyond mobility. The framework highlights stark regional differences: for example, many Chinese and broader APAC OEMs expect to have open supplier ecosystems and digital engineering environments in place by Phase 3, while many European and North American firms project those developments only in Phase 4 or later.
With vehicle software now a key battleground for differentiation, revenue diversification and consumer experience, this new benchmark aims to help automakers, suppliers and partners align their strategy, investment and execution on a shared, transparent path from connectivity to full software-defined mobility.
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