Ep. 266: Is Your Car Secretly Smarter Than You? AI-Defined Vehicles with Edward Wilford from Omdia Automotive

Heated seat subscriptions (aka “toasty buns”), the Little Tikes EV charging station and a Cary Grant–level Bear photoshoot? Yes, this episode covers ALL the important topics in automotive. Recorded live at AutoTech Detroit, Edward Wilford, Senior Research Director at Omdia Automotive is my guest today to talk about the leap from software defined vehicles (SDV) to AI-defined vehicles (AIDV), and why some automakers are sprinting while others are still tying their shoes. You’ll hear who’s winning at SDV and AIDV and why Mercedes-Benz just snagged AI Automaker of the Year, a clear, human explanation of SDV vs AIDV, and the business logic behind subscriptions from seat heaters to features you didn’t know you’d pay for. Edward also explains how AI can manage range, charging, and comfort based on your real-life habits, why mapping companies may become the most powerful players you never see on the window sticker, and how automakers are split between “everything-in-the-car OS” and bring-your-own-smartphone minimalism. Press play if you’re wondering where the brains of your next car are headed, and who actually makes money on this shi---- shift. Don’t miss the video for this one, linked below!_______________________________YouTube video for this episode: "Rapid Fire Questions with Edward"_______________________________Automotive News Europe: Automakers face unbridgeable gap as AI-defined vehicles expose software readiness divide_______________________________This episode is sponsored by AutoTech by Informa. AutoTech is the annual gathering point for more than 3,000 automotive industry leaders who come together for three days of immersive B2B networking, meaningful connections, and high-impact discussions. Guided by an Industry Advisory Board, the program features carefully curated sessions that tackle real-world challenges and spark breakthrough innovation. Dedicated to advancing the AutoTech ecosystem, the event also offers exclusive matchmaking services and dynamic exhibitions and showcases, giving attendees direct access to the latest cutting-edge technologies and solutions. Learn more at autotechevents.com_______________________________Connect with Edward on LinkedIn________________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________