In November 2024, Volvo Cars shared some exciting plans during their Capital Days presentation. They’re shifting gears from a hardware-focused approach to a software-first strategy. One highlight was the introduction of their “superset technology stack,” first revealed in September 2024.
Alwin Bakkenes, the head of global engineering, explained that this tech stack ties into key aspects of modern vehicles like safety and user experience. It’s a modular platform designed to build all future vehicles, allowing Volvo to enhance safety and efficiency while continuously improving cars through software updates.
Bakkenes mentioned that this approach lets Volvo create everything from smaller models like the EX30 to premium vehicles like the EX90, all on a scalable basis. Traditionally, companies used different architectures for different car sizes. But the superset tech stack eliminates that by standardizing software and electronics, making operations much more efficient. Consequently, as Volvo embraces this unified platform, it also boosts its profit margins by streamlining its engineering efforts.
The EX90, as Volvo’s first fully software-defined car, operates on a centralized computing system using Nvidia’s Drive Orin, which powers advanced AI functions in safety and driving assistance. This system means that instead of major leaps between vehicle generations, Volvo can roll out enhancements across its lineup in real time.
To improve its vehicles continuously, Volvo collects data from fleets on the road, helping to fine-tune performance over time. Bakkenes shared an example: if there’s an issue at a specific intersection, they can gather data from affected vehicles to understand the problem and refine their software models accordingly.
Volvo also inverts the development process by using a closed-loop system that relies on real-time data. This process is supported by one of northern Europe’s most powerful AI supercomputers. Through Zenseact, Volvo leverages Nvidia’s AI capabilities to push boundaries in autonomous driving safety. Their strategy involves uploading fleet data and refining AI models.
To enhance safety further, every Volvo now comes equipped with 5G connectivity. Bakkenes emphasized that this allows for sophisticated, real-time processing, combining both in-vehicle and cloud-based systems powered by Nvidia. Their goal is clear—deliver vehicles that leverage the best technology available for safety.
Additionally, Volvo has standardized on Google’s Android operating system for infotainment. This decision gives them a solid base for a stable system and fosters collaboration with third-party app developers. For instance, they’ve integrated parking apps in Sweden to enhance the driving experience.
In today’s world, the infotainment system has taken center stage in car evaluations. Bakkenes believes this element is critical for customer satisfaction and loyalty—it shapes how drivers interact with their vehicles. As Volvo gathers data from on-road experiences, they’re able to enhance the infotainment systems in vehicles already on the market, continuously improving the customer experience.