FYI: Volkswagen Faces Major Software Hurdles in EV Development, Impacting Timelines for Key Models
Volkswagen’s Future in EVs Hits a Software Snag
Volkswagen is reportedly contending with substantial software challenges in its upcoming electric vehicles (EVs), potentially derailing its ambitious plans for an electric future. This comes despite a hefty $5 billion investment in Rivian to leverage the startup’s electric vehicle architecture.
Persistent Software Development Crisis
Reports from Germany suggest that the Volkswagen Group may not be entirely out of its software development troubles. The launch of the Audi Q6 E-Tron and the revamped Porsche Macan has been delayed due to software issues related to the EV-specific Platform PPE. According to Handelsblatt, anonymous sources revealed on July 11 that the debut of several Volkswagen-branded vehicles is being postponed due to software complications tied to the new SSP platform.
Delayed Launches for Key Models
Among the delayed models is a successor to the current ID.4, now expected to launch no earlier than 2029, a 15-month delay from the original schedule. An SUV, codenamed T-Sport, is also mentioned, but its launch isn’t projected before 2031. Manager Magazine highlighted on July 12 that part of the lengthy delay is to stagger the launches of SSP-based vehicles, ensuring they don’t conflict with scheduled releases of other models.
Extending the Life of the MEB Platform
Another reason for the delay revolves around prolonging the lifespan of the current MEB platform, slated for replacement by the SSP. Series production of MEB-based vehicles only began in 2020. Volkswagen has since rolled out an upgraded version, MEB+, and is working on a more affordable iteration called MEB Entry, expected to launch in 2025 as a production version of the ID.2all concept.
Impact on VW Group Brands
It’s uncertain if other Volkswagen Group brands will face delays, but the SSP platform is intended for use across most VW Group models. Initially introduced in 2021, the platform is designed to incorporate common battery cells and software systems across different models. Porsche is developing its own version called the SSP sports platform, aimed at premium segments within the VW Group.
Partnerships to Mitigate Software Woes
Volkswagen is actively seeking partnerships to navigate these software challenges, including collaborations with other automakers. In China, VW is working with EV startup Xpeng, while Audi has teamed up with SAIC, known for selling EVs globally through the MG brand. Additionally, Volkswagen announced a partnership in June with U.S. EV startup Rivian to co-develop hardware and software solutions for late-2020s vehicle launches.
Conclusion
Volkswagen’s entry into a comprehensive electric future is being hampered by software development issues, pushing back timelines and forcing strategic adjustments. As the automotive giant navigates these hurdles, its future in the competitive EV market remains to be seen.
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Authored by Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
