Elektrobit, a wholly owned independent subsidiary of Continental, has announced a strategic partnership with Metoak, a Chinese provider of intelligent driving solutions, to accelerate the development and adoption of software-defined vehicles (SDVs).

The collaboration integrates Elektrobit’s EB corbos Linux for Safety Applications – an open-source operating system compliant with automotive safety standards – with Metoak’s high-performance chips and driving algorithms. The first mass production project, now in its initial phase, focuses on stereoscopic vision and multi-sensor fusion technologies for next-generation ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) controllers. Mass production is expected by early 2026.

The project marks the first integration of open-source systems with domestic chips in China’s intelligent driving sector. Elektrobit brings its global software expertise, while Metoak contributes its stereoscopic vision technology, aiming to deliver secure, cost-effective, and updateable SDV solutions for Chinese automakers.

The partnership centres around two areas:

EB corbos Linux for Safety Applications – The world’s first open-source, high-performance computing OS to meet ISO 26262 ASIL B and IEC 61508 SIL 2 safety standards. Its customisability and compliance with the UNECE R155 cybersecurity regulation make it a competitive choice for automakers. Metoak has successfully adapted the OS to its chips, reducing supply chain risks and offering a flexible solution for local manufacturers.

AUTOSAR Software and Autonomous Driving – The partners will co-develop ASIL D-certified Classic AUTOSAR software to optimise real-time communication and safety. They also plan to work on Level 3 autonomous driving algorithms and build a local ecosystem to support the ‘domestic chips + open-source system’ model.

Yaojie Lu, CEO of Metoak, said: “Partnering with Elektrobit combines the flexibility of EB corbos Linux with our stereo vision and AI technology, enabling cost-efficient and precise perception solutions.”

Maria Anhalt, CEO of Elektrobit, added: “The success of SDVs depends on openness and collaboration. We’re proud to see the industry’s first open-source safety-compliant OS entering mass production alongside Metoak.”

The partnership sets the stage for scalable, safety-certified SDV innovations in China and beyond.

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Bengaluru-based electric two-wheeler maker Simple Energy has announced that it has achieved a significant breakthrough in its indigenous technology, by becoming the country's first original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to commercially manufacture heavy rare-earth-free motors.

This achievement, the company claims, was made possible by the company's strong in-house R&D capabilities and its state-of-the-art, 200,000 sqft manufacturing facility in Hosur, Tamil Nadu.

This new motor technology delivers the same high performance and torque as conventional motors but without the use of heavy rare earth elements. It represents a paradigm shift for the industry, especially as global EV players face increasing scrutiny over their reliance on critical raw materials.

Simple Energy stated that for years, heavy rare-earth magnets have been the standard for EV motors due to their high torque density and compact size. In response to global material restrictions, Simple Energy's in-house R&D team developed a patented motor architecture. The team explored and tested alternative compounds to achieve performance on par with heavy rare-earth-based systems. This innovation is combined with proprietary in-house algorithms that precisely control heat, magnetic fields and torque delivery.

Unlike most EV companies that rely on external suppliers, Simple Energy designs and manufactures its own motors, giving it complete control over the entire process. This approach has drastically reduced R&D time, allowing the company to bring these new motors to market at an unmatched pace.

Suhas Rajkumar, CEO and Co-founder, Simple Energy, said, “Global supply chain disruptions and material dependencies have made one thing clear: the future of electric mobility must be built on self-reliance. Deep localisation and a ‘Make in India’ approach are no longer aspirations – they’re imperatives. This patented, in-house technology replaces heavy rare earth magnets with optimised compounds and is powered by proprietary algorithms that manage heat and torque in real time. Already in production, it proves that high performance can be achieved without compromising sustainability or strategic independence.”

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Japanese auto major Toyota Motor Corporation has announced the start of sales for its e-Palette BEV, a new battery-electric vehicle designed for a wide range of mobility services. The e-Palette, which went on sale 15^th September, is not just a form of transportation but a versatile platform that can be transformed into a mobile store, service space, or entertainment vehicle.

The e-Palette features a spacious interior and large windows, creating an open, customisable environment. Its design allows for multi-use applications throughout the day, such as serving as a shuttle bus in the morning and a retail space later on. The vehicle is also designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a low floor, wide sliding doors and an electric ramp to accommodate wheelchair users.

While currently supporting Level 2 automated driving, Toyota aims to introduce vehicles with Level 4 automated driving systems to the market by fiscal year 2027. The e-Palette will be deployed in areas like Toyota Arena Tokyo and the upcoming Toyota Woven City for transportation and mobile retail services. Additionally, Toyota plans to conduct automated driving demonstrations in collaboration with partners to advance its mobility vision.

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Tata Technologies Ltd has announced its strategic acquisition of German automotive engineering firm, ES-Tec Group, for EUR 75 million. The deal, which will be paid over two years and includes performance-based earn-outs, is set to significantly bolster Tata Technologies’ capabilities in next-generation mobility solutions and expand its European footprint.  

The move is expected to accelerate the company’s engineering research and development (ER&D) growth, specifically in high-demand areas like Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), Connected Driving and Digital Engineering. The acquisition also adds a substantial talent pool of over 300 skilled engineers with deep expertise in systems engineering.  

The acquisition aligns with Tata Technologies’ global growth strategy, placing it in a stronger position within Germany, a key hub for automotive innovation. The company's management believes the deal will unlock significant commercial synergies, allowing for cross-selling opportunities and broader access to original equipment manufacturer (OEM) accounts. The transaction is projected to be EPS accretive from the first full year of operations. The automotive industry is in a state of flux, with European OEMs increasing investments in electrification and software-defined vehicle platforms. Tata Technologies is positioning itself to capitalise on this trend, with the market for Engineering Service Providers (ESPs) in Europe projected to grow from EUR 4.5 billion in 2020 to EUR 11.7 billion by 2030.  

Warren Harris, MD & CEO, Tata Technologies, said, “The acquisition of ES-Tec Group is a strategic leap that enhances our ability to deliver end-to-end product engineering solutions across the automotive value chain and represents our commitment to expand our global footprint in accessing innovative engineering capabilities. Technical depth, customer centricity and regional strength align perfectly with our strategic vision to be the first partner choice for global OEMs navigating the shift towards intelligent, connected, and sustainable mobility.”  

Marc Wille, MD & CEO of ES-Tec, said, “Joining forces with Tata Technologies is a key step for the ES-Tec Group to extend the breadth and depth of capabilities and expand our international presence. Together, we are ready to take on the future challenges of the automotive industry – delivering real value for our customers through competitive pricing, outstanding quality, and faster development cycles.”

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Renesas Electronics, a global supplier of advanced semiconductor solutions, is set to showcase its comprehensive portfolio at electronica India 2025. The event will take place from 17 to 19 September at the Bengaluru International Exhibition Centre, with Renesas located in Hall 2 at Booth H2.C01.

The company's exhibition will highlight its latest innovations for industrial, automotive and consumer applications. The featured product lines encompass High Performance Computing, Embedded Processing, Analog & Connectivity and Power solutions, all engineered to simplify and enhance modern technology. Key demonstrations will include scalable automotive MCUs and SoCs for next-generation vehicle systems, power innovations utilising GaN HEMT technology for efficient energy conversion and a wide array of Analog & Connectivity solutions for diverse markets. A significant focus will be on Renesas 365, a pioneering industry platform powered by Altium, which is designed to streamline the development of software-defined products by unifying silicon and software on a collaborative cloud platform. The booth will also display innovative university projects developed with Renesas design kits.

In a collaborative effort with partner Quest Global, Renesas will present live demonstrations of autonomous driving and ADAS technology. These demonstrations, powered by the Renesas R-Car V4H SoC, will offer attendees a hands-on experience by allowing them to sit in a demo car on site.

Furthermore, Renesas leadership will be active participants in the conference agenda. On the first day, Malini Narayanamoorthi, Country Manager and VP, MID Engineering, Analog & Connectivity Group, Renesas India, will deliver a keynote at the CEO Forum. This will be followed by appearances from other senior directors in a Fireside Chat and the e-Mobility Conference. The second day will feature additional Renesas directors speaking at the e-Future Conference and the Innovation Forum, underscoring the company's commitment to industry dialogue.

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