Volvo is committed to developing cutting-edge, software-defined vehicles, exemplified by the all-electric EX90 and EX30 SUVs. These models receive regular over-the-air updates, ensuring continuous improvement and enhanced functionality. This commitment necessitates significant investment in in-house software development and testing. A cornerstone of this strategy is the newly established, state-of-the-art software testing center in Gothenburg, Sweden.
This 22,000 square meter facility represents a substantial investment of approximately SEK 300 million. It serves as the flagship among Volvo’s global network of engineering centers and Tech Hubs, complementing existing software testing centers in Lund, Sweden, and Shanghai, China. The Gothenburg center significantly surpasses these in both size and capacity.
This expanded capacity is crucial due to the rapid transformation of the automotive industry. Modern Volvo vehicles are defined by electrification, online sales models, advanced core computers with proprietary software, and continuous improvement through over-the-air updates.
In-house software development and testing are pivotal to realizing Volvo’s strategic ambitions. These include achieving industry leadership in new technologies and transitioning to a fully electric car company by 2030. This new center directly supports these goals.
Anders Bell, Volvo’s global head of R&D, emphasizes the center’s role as a global hub for software testing and validation. Developers worldwide can access and utilize the facility remotely, ensuring continuous operation. He believes this center establishes a new industry benchmark.
Initially, the facility will employ around 100 individuals, with projections to reach 300 at full capacity. Ultimately, the center will house approximately 500 testing rigs and digital test environments, a significant increase from the current 200.
The Gothenburg center collaborates closely with other global engineering centers integral to software development. Recent expansions include a new Tech Hub in Singapore and a planned software-focused Tech Hub in Krakow, Poland. These additions further strengthen Volvo’s global network.
Alwin Bakkenes, Volvo’s global head of software engineering, highlights the diverse challenges tackled by their growing team of software engineers. Focus areas include core safety technology, perception and driver assistance algorithms, and software for autonomous driving. These efforts aim to accelerate innovation.
Beyond these core areas, software engineering efforts extend to developing next-generation connected features and leveraging data analytics to support development. Volvo actively recruits software engineers globally, with open positions listed on their Careers page.
Volvo’s global network includes Tech Hubs in Stockholm and Lund, Sweden; Bangalore, India; and the aforementioned locations in Krakow and Singapore. Large engineering centers in Shanghai, China, and Gothenburg, Sweden, complete this strategically distributed network of innovation centers. Each location contributes unique expertise, collectively driving Volvo’s advancements.
In conclusion, Volvo’s new software testing center in Gothenburg exemplifies its dedication to software development excellence. This investment underscores its commitment to innovation, solidifying its position as a leader in the evolving automotive landscape. By fostering in-house expertise and expanding global collaboration, Volvo is poised to deliver increasingly sophisticated and safe vehicles for the future. This commitment to software excellence directly benefits customers through continuous improvements and enhanced features in Volvo vehicles.
