Automakers face mounting challenges with data fragmentation and interoperability as they transition to software-defined vehicles (SDVs), according to a new Reuters whitepaper sponsored by Amazon Web Services (AWS). The study reveals that siloed data in incompatible formats is becoming a critical bottleneck for innovation in the automotive industry.
Mike Tzamaloukas, General Manager of Automotive IoT at AWS, emphasizes that while software-defined vehicles enable simultaneous management of software and data, fragmented data systems remain a significant hurdle. “With so many different data formats and proprietary definitions that go into cars, turning vehicle data into useful information is a heavy lift for automakers,” he notes.
The research identifies two primary challenges: the proliferation of custom solutions leading to data fragmentation, and the absence of integrated platforms that combine software and data development. This fragmentation is expected to worsen as complex vehicle sensors become standard equipment.
Continental, a major automotive supplier, has already begun addressing these challenges through its partnership with AWS. Michael Huelsewies, SVP/Head of Architecture & Software at Continental, reveals that their Continental Automotive Edge (CAEdge) platform has successfully reduced software implementation time in pilot programs.
Key findings from industry leaders include:
“It’s not all the data, but the right data—the data you need,” explains Tzamaloukas, describing how AWS IoT FleetWise helps automakers query specific data points while maintaining efficiency and reducing costs.
The report concludes that as vehicles become increasingly software-defined, establishing standardized data frameworks will be crucial for future innovation in autonomous driving, safety features, and connected services.
