The data driven development of software-defined functions and systems of EVs (e.g. in context of battery and e-motor control, predictive eco-driving functions or control of vehicle dynamics, as well as comfort) requires the use of improved tools across domains (e.g. mechanical, dynamic, electrical, and acoustical) and scales (from component to vehicle in a mobility scenario) as well as a deep understanding of the vehicle operation in real life.

However, the current development and design framework does not allow such complex software-defined functions and systems to be addressed in an integrated manner, resulting often in solutions optimised for a specific operating point that is only partially representative of real use conditions and lacking the resource-efficient reuse of these solutions across multiple vehicle platforms. Moreover, the development of vehicles that are constantly capable to adapt during lifetime (e.g. by remote programming capabilities) is also not sufficiently enabled.

In order to fully exploit the potential of software-defined EV functions and vehicles, an advanced dedicated digital development framework is needed. Proposals under this topic are expected to address all of the following aspects:

• Design and validation of robust digital tools to efficiently and effectively develop complex EVs that are increasingly software-defined.
• Advanced methods for development of trustworthy (24/7 available, secure, safe) software-defined EV solutions.
• Promoting the use and adaption of conceptional tools and demonstrate integration into development frameworks for virtual approval (early demonstrators) that are applicable to all EV types considered in 2ZERO (from L-category to Heavy Duty vehicles).
• Concepts enabling the feedback to and use of all types of data (e.g. engineering data, real-life operational data of EVs) in the product development of software-defined vehicle functions including automated update of the applied digital tools and models.