saving time and money. Development is also more sustainable
thanks to the reduced need to build physical prototypes.
Systems Engineering and Integration Capability
At AVL, we work according to the principle of model-based
systems engineering (MBSE). This means that we approach
development goals holistically from the outset. For example,
the thermal system is a key factor in reducing energy con-
sumption, but you can also lower the chassis and thus reduce
air resistance. Weight also reduces the energy required – in
any case, the systems must interact harmoniously. In this con-
text, integration capability also plays an increasingly important
role: The industry demands solutions that are as flexible as
possible and can ideally be adapted to other derivatives at a
manageable investment cost. To this end, we are developing
innovative platform solutions for future vehicle architectures
with a wide range of modular integration options (e.g., for pro-
propulsion systems, E/E systems, chassis, thermal manage-
ment, ADAS/AD, etc.).
Focus on Functions
Closely related to AVL’s cross-system approach is our focus
on functions. For example, we don’t just look at a brake as a
component, but address the function of braking on several
levels – from the chassis (friction brake) to the propulsion
system (recuperation) and the exterior (aerodynamics). The
software area in particular offers great potential for integrating
new functions. These can be implemented more easily via up-
dates than by intervening in the hardware, for example, in the
control units. We are developing appropriate solutions in this
area, with which certain attributes can be repeatedly adapted
to changing customer expectations throughout the vehicle’s
life cycle.
At the Forefront of Global Development
Our global Vehicle Benchmarking Program is one of the
factors behind us at AVL having a very specific idea of what
the vehicles of the next generation will look like. For years, the
program has been providing objective assessments for nu-
merous vehicle characteristics of market-leading models. The
subjective impressions of end customers are thus translated
into comparable, objective metrics from which technical re-
quirements for the entire vehicle development can be derived
– from product positioning, including the customer market
profile as well as the technical specifications of the individual
components derived from this, through continuous review of
the development status, to release testing.