Renault and Valeo develop software-defined vehicles

Renault is also programming the next level in terms of software: The planned Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) architecture will enable vehicles to always be up-to-date throughout their entire lifecycle and new functions to be integrated without hardware changes.

Big package: Valeo also supplies the high-performance computer

As part of this partnership, Valeo will deliver key electrical and electronic components, including the HPC (High-Performance Computer), the heart of driving strategies and driver assistance systems (ADAS); as well as zone controllers that enable more efficient energy management and a significant reduction in wiring; additionally, power distribution modules and ADAS components such as ultrasonic sensors, driving and parking cameras.

Valeo's engineers will work near Renault Group's sites in Guyancourt, Toulouse, and Sophia-Antipolis and will also cooperate with the teams from the Renault Software Factory on software development. Moreover, Valeo will provide application software for the vehicle, such as for parking assistance. The new partnership aims to reduce development times and costs for the electrical and electronic architecture while focusing on high performance, compatibility, and safety.

Renault is expanding with several software partners

Renault Group has already made agreements with Google for cooperation on the operating system, cloud, and digital twin, and with Qualcomm for digital chassis and system-on-chip areas. With the new collaboration with Valeo, Renault Group aims to strengthen its control over the SDV value chain. François Provost, Renault Group Chief Purchasing, Partnerships, and Public Affairs Officer, explains:

"The inclusion of Valeo in our technological ecosystem is an important step towards the joint development of our software-defined vehicle. This new partnership combines the skills, know-how, and innovative power of our two French companies."

He adds as a strategic goal:

"This enables us to offer technologically advanced and competitive vehicles in terms of cost and development time. With Renault Group and its future company Ampere, which deals with e-vehicles and software, we continue to expand our position in the value chain of tomorrow to become the next-generation automotive company."

Marc Vrecko, President of Valeo's Comfort and Driving Assistance Systems Business Group, adds:

"This joint development work strengthens the long-standing partnership between Valeo and the Renault Group. We are proud, thanks to this very important contract, to jointly pave the way for the software-defined vehicle of the future with the Renault Group. This strategic partnership demonstrates our great commitment to jointly go beyond the boundaries of current automotive technology to improve the driving experience and user safety."

What does that mean?

Valeo is also expanding its breadth: Like ZF, it not only develops control components but also HPC computers, which will simplify the vehicle's electrical system in the future. Reading between the lines, it is evident how extensive Valeo's portfolio has become and that the company is increasingly becoming a full-service provider in ADAS matters.