The Software-Defined Vehicle: How AI, Sensor Fusion, and Autonomy Are Turning Cars Into the World’s Most Demanding Edge Devices
Session Abstract:
The automobile is being redefined in software. As the industry shifts from dozens of fixed-function controllers to centralized, high-performance compute, the Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) is emerging as the most complex connected edge device most people will ever own, one that keeps getting safer and more capable long after it leaves the showroom.
In this session, KMS Technology CTO Guy Merritt sits down with Dr. Dirk Schulte of Valeo to unpack what this transformation really means. The conversation traces the trend from robotaxis to mainstream passenger cars, then demystifies the autonomy levels everyone has heard about, Level 2, “2+,” Level 3 and beyond, including why Level 3 is such a legal and technical watershed, and how this same framework is now being applied to humanoid robots and embodied AI.
From there, the discussion turns to the engine room of modern vehicle safety: AI-powered sensor fusion that blends camera, radar, LiDAR, and ultrasonic data into a single trustworthy view of the world, and the hard problem of validating probabilistic AI to deterministic safety standards. The pair close inside the cabin, where AI is driving a new wave of monitoring, personalization, and comfort, and the data and privacy questions that come with it.
For an IoT audience, the SDV is the edge-AI, connectivity, and security challenge in its most demanding form. This session connects those dots, and looks ahead to where the road leads next.
Speakers:
Guy Merritt is an experienced C-suite executive, Guy has 35 years engineering leadership advising and developing IoT solutions, native cloud-based systems, products and engineering & manufacturing test solutions for a wide variety of industries. He is an author of the award-winning book “Proactive Risk Management: Controlling Uncertainty in Product Development.” • Spearhead technology strategy and thought leadership across multiple industry verticals, enhancing client engagement and satisfaction. • Collaborate with KMS senior leaders and delivery teams to align strategic direction with tactical actions in technology practice areas and solutions. • Drive innovation initiatives to improve service offerings for client revenue growth and retention.
Dirk Schulte is R&D Director, Advanced Engineering & Product Platforms for Valeo BRAIN, responsible for Driving Automation and Interior Experience related research and development activities in North America. He began his career with Valeo in 1999 and progressed through a variety of positions of increasing responsibility, starting in powertrain/electrical systems, and now focused on ADAS, driver assistance systems and cabin interior technologies for comfort and safety. During this time, Dirk spent 10 years in France, and 8 years in Brazil, deepening his understanding of automotive technology and global customer needs. Dirk has a passion for vehicle safety systems, automated driving technologies, and human-machine interface technology that makes driving safer and more enjoyable. He holds a Doctoral Degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Aachen (RWTH Aachen) in Germany and is based at the Valeo Technical Center in Troy, Mich.