The Dispatch: Week 3
Volkswagen doubles down on Qualcomm chips for SDVs, Škoda fortifies cybersecurity, Hyundai Motor Group Appoints Dr. Minwoo Park New Head for SDV Strategy
SDV Insider — January 16, 2026
Happy Friday, SDV Insiders!
With CES 2026 in the rearview mirror, the software-defined vehicle (SDV) conversation is only accelerating. This week brought clear signals of how major OEMs are reshaping their strategies—deepening silicon partnerships, building in-house compute, and strengthening cyber defenses across increasingly connected fleets.
The industry’s pivot to software-first is no longer a vision—it’s an execution challenge. From Volkswagen’s SDV roadmap to Ford’s in-house compute push, the focus remains on scalable architectures, robust platforms, and secure integration as automakers race to define their digital edge.
🚀 Top Story
Volkswagen Deepens SDV Bet with Qualcomm Partnership
Volkswagen Group and Qualcomm Technologies have signed a letter of intent for a long-term supply agreement, positioning Qualcomm to power the automaker’s next-generation Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) architecture. This partnership, highlighted at CES 2026, aims to deliver advanced infotainment and Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities, alongside a new zonal architecture, by 2027. The agreement underscores Volkswagen’s commitment to in-house software development through Cariad while strategically leveraging external expertise for critical silicon and software components.
Our take: This move is a textbook example of how established OEMs are navigating the SDV transition. Rather than a full vertical integration, Volkswagen is strategically partnering with a proven leader in automotive compute. The focus on a zonal architecture and Level 4 readiness by 2027 signals a rapid acceleration in their SDV roadmap. For Qualcomm, it solidifies their position as a central player in the automotive software stack, proving their Snapdragon Digital Chassis can be the backbone for diverse OEM strategies.
⚙️ Industry Pulse
Škoda Fortifies Connected Vehicle Cybersecurity with Upstream
Škoda Auto has entered a strategic partnership with automotive cybersecurity firm Upstream Security to enhance the cybersecurity of its connected vehicles. This collaboration aims to centralize cyber threat intelligence, risk signals, and compliance data into a unified platform, bolstering Škoda’s defense against evolving digital threats across its fleet.
Mitsubishi Drives 5G Connectivity for OTA Updates
Mitsubishi Motors North America and AT&T are joining forces to integrate 5G connectivity into the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander. This partnership will enable the vehicle to receive seamless over-the-air updates without requiring a dealership visit, enhancing navigation, infotainment, and overall connected driving experiences.
💼 Company Moves & Partnerships
Hyundai Motor Group Appoints New Head for SDV Strategy
Hyundai Motor Group has appointed Dr. Minwoo Park as the Head of its Advanced Vehicle Platform Division and CEO of 42dot. This strategic recruitment of a global technology leader underscores Hyundai’s commitment to strengthening its software-defined vehicle (SDV) and autonomous driving-based vehicle software competitiveness.
Kodiak AI Partners with Bosch for Autonomous Trucking Hardware
Autonomous trucking startup Kodiak AI has announced a strategic agreement with Bosch to scale the production of its autonomous trucking hardware and sensor solutions. This partnership will see Bosch supplying critical hardware components, including sensors and vehicle actuation components, enabling Kodiak to accelerate the deployment of production-grade autonomous trucks.
Ford Unveils In-House Compute Module for Universal EV Architecture
Ford has revealed its internally developed processor module, designed to power future vehicles built on a new universal electrical/electronic (E/E) architecture. This move aims to reduce advanced vehicle technology costs and enhance customer value by bringing core compute capabilities in-house, aligning with the industry trend towards greater control over the software and hardware stack.
📅 Events
ACT Expo 2026 to Feature Rivian and Mack Trucks Leaders
The Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo 2026 May 4-7, 2026 in Las Vegas will host keynote speeches from Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe and Mack Trucks President Stephen Roy. The event, focusing on advanced commercial transportation, promises insights into the future of clean trucking and connected fleet management—highlighting how technology leaders are shaping the industry’s evolution. Are you going?
👋 That’s a Wrap
This week reinforced that the automotive industry’s software transformation is not just conceptual; it’s driving tangible product improvements, strategic alliances, and significant market growth. From deep silicon partnerships to cybersecurity investments, the pace of innovation remains relentless. We’re excited to see what next week brings.
— The SDV Insider Crew 🚗