GenAI Automotive Podcast

Product discovery doesn’t disappear in AI — it becomes more important.In my experience, teams that skip disciplined discovery pay for it later in failed pilots and stalled products.Curious how others approach discovery in AI-heavy products.

Most failures in data-heavy products aren’t technical.They’re product management failures — especially around data ownership, value framing, and uncertainty.Curious how others have experienced this.

AI value is rarely destroyed intentionally.In my experience, it’s lost through well-intended executive decisions that make delivery and adoption almost impossible.Interested to hear how others have seen this play out.

Most GenAI initiatives never make it past the pilot stage.In my experience, this has very little to do with the technology — and everything to do with product ownership, value framing, and delivery discipline.Curious how others are seeing this play out.

I spoke with Paige Mullen — co-founder of Camion, with 15 years of experience in EV charging and a career that began at Tesla. We traced the evolution of charging from its early days in California to today’s ongoing challenges around interoperability, reliability, and grid integration. Paige shared Camion’s journey from raising €2.7M pre-seed funding to building a SaaS model that sells insights rather than just infrastructure, highlighting the importance of real estate, site selection, and forecasting. We discussed the energy infrastructure challenges ahead, from vehicle-to-grid to renewable alignment, and how AI is beginning to transform everything from site utilisation forecasting to revenue modelling and intelligent grid management. The conversation closed with Paige’s long-term vision of how EV charging, AI, and energy converge to accelerate decarbonisation — along with her advice for startups working at the intersection of mobility and energy.

I sat down with Yang Zhang — Founder and CEO of AutoCore.ai, Co-founder and Chairman of the Autoware Foundation, and a former senior leader at NVIDIA and the Chinese Academy of Sciences. We discussed his journey from shaping global hardware standards and building open-source ecosystems to driving GenAI-powered innovation at AutoCore.ai. Yang shared his perspective on GenAI as both an assistant and a driver, enabling 5–10x efficiency gains while still requiring deep human expertise for the final stretch. We explored the realities behind the hype, the importance of domain-specific integration, and how open collaboration through the Autoware Foundation is shaping the mobility ecosystem. The conversation closed with Yang’s vision of GenAI as a true co-pilot for engineers and a force that could democratise the development of autonomous systems in the years ahead.

I spoke with Adam J. Mandel — founder, advisor, and holder of seven patents, with more than fifteen years at the forefront of autonomy, EVs, and AI. We discussed his unique path from a non-technical background into leadership roles, where he bridged advanced technology with customer-first thinking to help deep-tech companies scale. Adam reflected on the realities of commercialising frontier technologies, from the challenges of deploying autonomous systems on public roads to the trade-offs between lidar and vision. We also explored his work at Rivian on charging and fleet solutions, as well as his venture EnergizedAI, which used AI to improve EV charger reliability and was later acquired by 7Gen. The conversation closed with his belief that the future of mobility is not just electric but intelligent — and his advice for innovators working at the intersection of AI, autonomy, and electrification.

I sat down with Daniel Tesic, whose career spanned Volkswagen Group China, XPENG, and NIO before moving into advisory and consulting. We discussed why China has become such a powerhouse in EV adoption and digital services, and what Western OEMs often overlook about that market. Daniel reflected on the contrasting approaches of incumbents and challengers, sharing lessons from his time leading over-the-air software launches and rolling out NIO’s NOMI GPT across Europe. Our conversation touched on go-to-market strategies for new entrants, the growing importance of AI copilots and in-car assistants, and the balance between strategy, product, and marketing in a fast-moving industry. We closed with Daniel’s perspective on whether today’s challengers will become tomorrow’s household names — and how customer relationships with cars may look radically different by 2030.

I spoke with Barak — mobility consultant, author of #movingpeople, and founder of Mobility Business — about the shifts shaping transport today and tomorrow. We explored wireless electrification and the hurdles facing its adoption in Europe, the evolving dynamics of ride-hailing and chauffeur services, and the state of autonomous buses and trucks, with a spotlight on China’s momentum. Barak also shared insights into how digital twins are transforming fleet management, why in-cabin AI could be more than just a gimmick, and which overlooked fundamentals cities must revisit if mobility is to scale sustainably. Our conversation ranged from the practical to the visionary, closing with his perspective on what mobility might look like by 2030.

I’m joined by Tom Fawcett, a business builder who has led start-ups within some of the UK’s biggest automotive names, including JLR and the AA. We explore how he’s turned ideas into real businesses with P&L responsibility, balancing the demands of innovation with commercial delivery. Tom shares his experiences bringing AI and data-driven services to life — from predictive maintenance and breakdown prevention to vision AI in customer apps — and the challenges of adoption, trust, and proving value. We also discuss future-proofing mobility through connected cars, subscriptions, and AI-driven services, before reflecting on what it really takes to lead high-performing teams inside corporate environments. Tom offers candid advice for automotive leaders and paints a picture of how AI could transform the way we use and own vehicles over the next decade.

I sit down with Shashi Vyas – aerospace engineer turned automotive disruptor, founder of SNEV.in (India’s first EV supercar company), and board member at Future Dynamics. We explore India’s position in the global EV race, from the risks of clinging to legacy models to the opportunities of born-electric platforms. Shashi shares candid thoughts on China’s manufacturing edge, Europe’s challenges, and the lessons automakers must learn from Tesla, BYD, and NIO. We also dive into his bold vision for an Indian EV supercar, the role of AI in driving performance and sustainability, and what it will take for India to claim a leadership role in the mobility revolution. This is a fascinating look at the crossroads of EVs, AI, and the future of global innovation.

Hey and welcome to the GenAI Automotive Podcast. My name is Fabian. I'm a former Deloitte Senior Consultant turned AI Product Manager. And on this channel, I'm sharing conversations with industry peers, thought leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, policymakers and beyond. All centred around AI in the wider automotive and mobility context. So if that's something you're interested in, you're in the right place and I'm very much looking forward to taking you with me on this journey.

I spoke with Simon Mall, who leads the EV charging business at McLaren Applied, the high-tech spin-out from the McLaren Group. We discussed his "Four Waves of Electrification" framework, which traced the evolution of EVs from early compliance-focused models to today’s emerging software-defined vehicles. Simon also shared how the EV charging ecosystem has mirrored this progression, moving from fragmented infrastructure to an AI-driven future focused on uptime, standardisation, and energy optimisation.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Philip Lunn, a pioneer in generative AI and visual technologies, about how image generation is reshaping the automotive design landscape. We delved into his journey from virtual reality and visual effects to developing tools that streamline and enhance design processes. Philip shed light on the real-world applications of generative image technology in the automotive sector, from accelerating design cycles to enabling more immersive and iterative visualisation. We also unpacked the broader industry impact, ethical considerations around IP and authenticity, and the challenges of deploying this tech at scale. A forward-looking conversation on where automotive design is headed in the age of GenAI.

I sat down with Carl Lightfoot, Co-Founder of AI Assistant, for a candid and thought-provoking conversation about what it really takes to build value with generative AI—especially in the complex world of automotive. We unpacked the gap between hype and reality, explored Carl’s journey from corporate life to start-up founder, and dug into the hard-won lessons from AI Assistant’s four-year evolution. Carl shared how they navigated technical challenges, reshaped their product based on real user feedback, and ultimately found product-market fit. We also touched on what true customer-centric development looks like, why profitability matters more than ever in GenAI, and what the future might hold for legacy tech players. It was a grounded, insightful chat full of practical takeaways for anyone building—or thinking of building—in AI.

I sat down with Helmuth Ritzer, Co-Founder and Managing Director of 800 Volt Technologies, for a deep dive into the forces shaping today’s automotive landscape. We explored the digitisation challenges OEMs are currently grappling with, drawing on Helmuth’s rich background at Daimler and his leadership roles across HERE Technologies, car2go, and moovel. Our conversation spanned the enablement of OEMs through digital innovation, the electrification of powertrains, and the rise of the software-defined vehicle (SDV). We discussed the shifting value proposition in the industry, the evolving engineering-manufacturing dynamic inspired by smartphone business models, and the pressure from global competition—particularly from China. Helmuth shared real-world AI use cases across infotainment, safety, location services, and autonomous driving, and offered insight into smart charging, V2X integration, and enabling charging everywhere. We closed with a forward-looking view on collaborative innovation models and the operating framework required to scale autonomous mobility.

I sat down with Fernando Lopez to explore how CampX by Volvo Group is driving the future of transport through startup-corporate collaborations. Fernando shared how CampX serves as Volvo’s innovation engine, enabling advancements in mobility and sustainability by connecting agile startups with the resources of a global industry leader. We delved into what makes these partnerships work—from tech readiness and strategic alignment to the non-financial support CampX provides, such as mentorship and validation environments. Fernando offered insights into how AI is accelerating innovation across Volvo, and how the company balances the risks and rewards of adopting emerging technologies. We also discussed how CampX filters the right innovations, the importance of solving real-world problems, and why ecosystem thinking is essential for the future of mobility. Wrapping up, Fernando shared his outlook on trends shaping logistics and sustainability, and his vision for the next generation of innovation hubs.

I sat down with Claire Weiller, Senior Director of Product & Programme Management at Fermata Energy, to explore the fast-evolving world of Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) technology. Claire shared her insight into what V2X actually is—spanning applications like Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G), Vehicle-to-Home (V2H), and Vehicle-to-Building (V2B)—and why it's becoming critical in the transition to a more flexible, decentralised energy system. We discussed the state of the V2X market globally and in the UK, spotlighting the key players driving real-world deployments, as well as the technical, regulatory, and commercial hurdles still holding it back. Claire also delved into how AI and predictive analytics can unlock smarter decision-making for both consumers and the grid, and laid out her vision for a future where cars act as energy citizens. It was a fascinating deep-dive into the challenges and opportunities at the intersection of mobility, energy, and data.

I was joined by Daniel Tibble, Data Product Director at Renault Mobilize, to reflect on his journey through the pandemic at Wejo and his transition into Mobilize. We explored how Mobilize fits within the broader Renault Group, delving into its organisational structure and strategic priorities. Daniel shared insights into the distinction between data and digital products, and how that impacts development and value creation. We also discussed Mobilize’s data strategy, including its product lifecycle, key assets like movement and charging data, and real-world use cases. The conversation touched on governance and navigating complex regulatory frameworks such as GDPR and the EU AI Act, before turning to the evolving role of Generative AI and large language models in and around the vehicle.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Marius Reuther, CEO of b-plus automotive GmbH, about the transformative role of AI and data in shaping the future of autonomous driving. We explored the intricacies of the data value chain and its importance in enabling smarter, more efficient decision-making in automotive systems. Marius shared valuable insights into the challenges of supervised learning and data labelling, and how b-plus is addressing these with scalable AI platforms. We also delved into the complexities of Operational Design Domains (ODDs), regulatory compliance, and how AI—particularly generative AI—is opening up new possibilities for innovation in mobility. It was a fascinating discussion packed with practical insights and a forward-looking vision for the industry.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Florian Baumann, a leading voice in the automotive software space, currently serving as Technical Advisor at STMicroelectronics and formerly Senior Director of Software, Platform Architecture at Aptiv. Our conversation explored how GenAI, Edge AI, and containerisation are reshaping vehicle architectures. Florian shared his journey from Aptiv to his current role, offering insights into the shift from centralised to decentralised automotive software systems and the rise of open-source platforms. We delved into the practical applications of GenAI in vehicle design, the role of WebAssembly in modernising legacy code, and how Edge AI enhances personalisation and real-time data processing within vehicles. Florian also highlighted the importance of collaboration between OEMs and suppliers to navigate the industry's technological transformation. His vision for the next decade painted an exciting picture of software-defined vehicles, underpinned by standardisation and innovation.

I sat down with Raul Kraus, Senior Manager at EY, to explore the evolving role of Generative AI in the automotive industry. We discussed how OEMs are adopting GenAI, the challenges they face, and notable success stories. Raul shared insights into the regulatory differences between Europe and the US, explaining why the latter sees faster application despite fewer restrictions. We also examined the critical role of data architecture and enterprise IT transformation in enabling AI-driven innovation. Finally, Raul offered predictions for the next decade and key recommendations for automotive companies looking to stay ahead in the AI revolution.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Thomas Kropf, former President of Corporate Sector Research and Advance Engineering at Bosch, about the transformative role of AI in the corporate world and beyond. We explored how Bosch has been leveraging Generative AI across various business areas, delving into real-world applications, challenges, and lessons learned. Thomas shared his insights on how AI is reshaping industry collaborations, particularly among OEMs, Tier-1 suppliers, and hyperscalers, and discussed strategies for driving AI adoption in large organisations. We wrapped up with a forward-looking discussion on the future of AI, Thomas’ advice for startups and corporates, and key takeaways for leaders navigating technological change.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Louis Nastro, a seasoned expert in autonomous vehicle (AV) technology, business strategy, and high-tech product development. We explored the critical role of localisation and perception in AV systems, diving into the technical challenges and how data-driven approaches enhance decision-making. Louis shared real-world applications of AV technology, from navigating complex environments like airports to leveraging digital twin solutions for operational efficiency. We also discussed the transformative impact of Generative AI in AV scenario development, highlighting its potential to accelerate innovation and commercial viability. Throughout our conversation, Louis offered valuable insights into balancing technical advancements with business needs, the importance of collaboration, and emerging trends shaping the future of AV technology. It was a fascinating discussion packed with practical takeaways for both technologists and business leaders.

I sat down with Scott Shepard, an award-winning urban planner, entrepreneur, and thought leader at the intersection of AI, urbanism, mobility, and decarbonisation. We explored the evolving role of urban planning in mobility, the rise of SUMP (Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan) and the impact of micrologistics on city infrastructure. Scott shared insights on venture capital trends shaping mobility innovation and the stark contrasts between European and US investment landscapes. We delved into AI's growing influence, from large language models to autonomous mobility, and debated Europe's positioning in the new geopolitical climate. With reflections on smart city development, and the lessons Europe can draw from history and current global developments, this conversation provides fresh perspectives for future of cities-first thinking.

I sat down with Nader Dagher, Director of Product Solutions and Integration at Seez, to explore the intersection of AI-driven bot solutions and the automotive industry. We delved into Nader’s journey from graphic design to leading innovative tech solutions, discussing how bots are transforming dealership-customer interactions worldwide. From improving efficiency and tackling misinformation to navigating regional adoption challenges, Nader shared fascinating insights into the benefits and complexities of implementing AI in such a dynamic sector. We also touched on his work with global markets, the role of tech partnerships, and what the future holds for automotive retail bot technology.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Clara de Ros, Senior Associate at Plug and Play Tech Center, about the transformative innovations shaping the automotive industry. Clara shared her journey as a venture capitalist specialising in Mobility, Energy, Robotics, and AI, and why these areas are crucial for the sector’s future. We explored the key trends in the automotive startup ecosystem, how Plug and Play evaluates investment opportunities, and the exciting potential of generative AI in applications like design, predictive analytics, and autonomous systems. Clara highlighted common challenges automotive startups face, the untapped opportunities for innovation, and offered invaluable advice for entrepreneurs navigating this competitive space. Finally, we discussed her vision for the next decade of automotive investment, the evolving role of VCs, and strategic recommendations for leaders at OEMs investing in generative AI. A must-listen for anyone passionate about the intersection of technology and mobility!

I had the pleasure of speaking with Henrique Monteiro Wadsworth, Director of Sustainability & Energy Efficiency and Co-Champion of Open Innovation and AI at Bridgestone Mobility Solutions. Henrique shared fascinating insights into Bridgestone's innovative organisational structure, where sustainability is championed as a dedicated value stream, and how the company leverages strategic acquisitions and partnerships to drive impactful solutions. We delved into current AI use cases, from driver monitoring systems to the broader cultural shifts required for collaboration in a traditionally tier-1 environment. Henrique also reflected on the talent implications of a rapidly evolving industry and shared his vision for the future of generative AI in mobility solutions. It was a deeply inspiring conversation about the intersection of strategy, technology, and sustainability in shaping the future of mobility.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Jesper Fredriksson, AI Engineer Lead at Volvo Cars, about his work at the forefront of generative AI in the automotive industry. Jesper shared insights into how generative AI is transforming workflows and customer experiences, from dynamic pricing to advanced customer support. We explored the broader implications of retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) systems and autonomous AI agents, tackling challenges like data privacy and ethical considerations. Jesper also shed light on the development cycles for AI products and his vision for a connected, autonomous mobility ecosystem powered by AI. Tune in for Jesper's invaluable advice for organisations adopting AI and a fascinating look at the future of innovation in this space.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Marcel Cauli, a visionary entrepreneur and investor with over two decades of experience at the helm of Extendas BV, the leading provider of back-office systems for petrol stations in the Netherlands. Marcel shared his expert insights into how artificial intelligence is transforming the mobility and fuelling industries. We explored the priorities for fuelling stations in adopting new energy solutions, sustainability initiatives, and the evolution towards multi-energy hubs. Marcel’s innovative mindset and forward-thinking approach to the future of mobility made this a truly engaging and thought-provoking discussion.

I was pleased to speak with Anja Hendel, Managing Director at Diconium, former Director of Innovation and Digital Transformation Finance at Porsche AG, and a passionate advocate for digital and organisational transformation. We discussed why hardware manufacturers often struggle with software development, delving into the inherent differences between the two disciplines. Anja offered a fascinating perspective on the unique characteristics of AI, tracing its historic development and exploring its transformative use cases, including autonomous driving, predictive analytics in mobility, and the emergence of new business models.We also reflected on how collaborations with external partners are changing, highlighting the competition within digital ecosystems, the critical capabilities needed to succeed, and the ongoing talent gaps in software and hardware development. To conclude, Anja shared her recommendations for senior executives navigating these challenges, providing actionable insights into staying ahead in an increasingly digital world.

I sat down with Koenraad Verduyn, a seasoned expert in smart mobility and intelligent transport systems, to explore the transformative impact of AI on urban transportation. From the evolution and challenges of Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) to the burgeoning role of generative AI in traffic modelling and simulations, Koenraad shared his insights on the intersection of technology and mobility. We delved into the potential of synthetic data, the role of autonomous vehicle initiatives in Belgium, and the future of smart cities driven by innovative solutions. Koenraad’s depth of knowledge and pragmatic perspective made for a fascinating discussion on what lies ahead for mobility in an increasingly connected world.

I spoke with Franck Louis-Victor, a leader in the automotive and tech industries, about his work at the forefront of in-vehicle customer experience innovation. With extensive experience in key OEM roles, including his leadership at Ford Next and Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi, Franck shared his insights into how (Gen)AI is reshaping interactions between drivers and their vehicles. We explored how connected services, autonomous driving, and AI-driven features are changing the automotive landscape, and discussed recommendations for OEMs to stay competitive as new entrants challenge traditional models. It was a deep dive into the future of customer touchpoints and the role of AI in creating personalised, seamless experiences in the automotive sector.

I had the privilege of speaking with Jonas Wagner, Partner and Managing Director at Berylls by AlixPartners, and Niklas von Weihe, CTO and Co-Founder of FULLY AI. We delved into the potential of Generative AI in the automotive industry, exploring Jonas’s market-level perspective on current strategic approaches, value drivers, and organisational learnings. Niklas provided a deep dive into fully AI-driven solutions, sharing use cases, lessons from product development, and applications in platforms like Meta. Together, we charted short-, medium-, and long-term outlooks for Generative AI, offering recommendations for Product Managers and Chief Data & AI Officers striving to harness its power.

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Ville Ilves, an accomplished executive advisor and former CEO of Rightware, to discuss his remarkable career journey and insights into the automotive and tech sectors. Ville shared his experiences leading Rightware to significant milestones, including doubling its revenue and securing major design wins with over 50 automotive OEMs. We delved into his expertise in software licensing and M&A work. Ville also offered a Scandinavian perspective on venture capital and deep tech innovation, along with his current endeavours financing a new electric vehicle company that combines Chinese manufacturing with European assembly, leveraging onboard LLMs and edge computing.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Rohit Auluck, Industry Strategy Manager for Automotive, Transportation, and Supply Chain at Autodesk. We delved into the intersection of design, engineering, and emerging technologies, discussing how generative AI is reshaping design studios and what tech companies are developing to push the boundaries of creativity. Rohit shared insights into the evolving priorities of the automotive sector—lighter, faster, and more cost-effective solutions—and the crucial role of data ownership for OEMs building their AI capabilities. We also touched on the skills gap in automotive design, the importance of digital twins, and the downstream implications across the value chain.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Julia Imlauer, an AI and robotics expert and co-founder of Presada. Our conversation spanned a range of topics, starting with the challenges of sensor data fusion and balancing structured and unstructured inputs. Julia offered perspectives on hosting machine learning models, managing costs, and the risks of over-reliance on external partners. We also explored advanced technologies like transformers and synthetic data, discussing their implications for scalability and innovation. Regulation and explainability emerged as key themes, with Julia sharing her thoughts on navigating these issues. Her commitment to diversity in tech and empowering young coders added an inspiring dimension to our dialogue.

I spoke with Andrei Iordache, Director of Automotive Solutions at HERE Technologies, about his experience with AI and location-based solutions in the automotive industry. We discussed his personal background and the company’s perspective on leveraging AI to create seamless user experiences, from EV charging to personalised travel recommendations that shift the focus from knowing where to go to simply understanding what you enjoy. Andrei shared insights into the critical role of underlying data, key lessons he’s learned leading a global team, and his thoughts on the future of location-based technologies, offering practical recommendations for staying ahead in this rapidly evolving space.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Neil Alliston, Executive Vice President of Product and Commercial at RAVIN AI. We explored Neil’s personal journey and how RAVIN AI has pioneered the use of computer vision to automate vehicle inspections, addressing industry challenges and creating value for diverse stakeholders. Neil walked me through the technical intricacies, including AI-driven computation and user experience hurdles, while also sharing insights into the future of the industry and the evolving role of generative AI. An enlightening conversation with a true leader at the cutting edge of AI innovation.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Dirk Leopold, Executive Vice President of Digital Engineering at itemis AG, and Andreas Graf, Senior Vice President of Artificial Intelligence & Dataspaces at itemis. We delved into the evolving landscape of software-defined vehicles, discussing the interplay between automotive cybersecurity and safety, and how generative AI is shaping processes and products in this domain. We also explored the challenges posed by changing regulations, frequent software updates, and the stringent data quality requirements needed to meet resubmission demands for SDV documentation. Dirk and Andreas offered unique insights into how innovation, leadership, and expertise are driving transformation in this complex, fast-paced industry.

I had the privilege of speaking with William Wei, a globally recognised technology leader and the visionary mind behind the MIH Open EV Platform, often called the "Android of EV." We delved into the transformative role of AI in reshaping industries, with a focus on Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs). William shared his experiences as CTO at Foxconn and his work in AI-first strategies, electric vehicles, and robotics, revealing how cutting-edge technologies are driving the future of mobility. His deep insights into AI infrastructure, decades of expertise in system-level innovation, and his entrepreneurial journey offered a fascinating glimpse into the evolving intersection of AI and automotive technology.

I had the privilege of speaking with Scott Newton, Managing Partner at Thinking Dimensions and a seasoned senior advisor to boards and C-level leaders. Our conversation delved into the rapidly evolving landscape of strategy within the automotive industry, exploring how new business models and digital ecosystems are redefining global competition. Scott shared his insights on the transformative role of Generative AI for automotive OEMs, from innovation to integration, and the strategic decisions leaders must make to stay ahead. With decades of experience advising boards, CEOs, and private equity leaders, Scott provided a masterclass in navigating the complexities of sustainable growth and digital transformation in one of the world’s most dynamic sectors.

I had an engaging conversation with Justus Benning, an AI expert currently advancing AI capabilities at VOSS Automotive, where he focuses on optimising the performance of the “ClickID” smart wearable. Justus brought a wealth of insights into the real-world applications and limitations of machine learning and artificial intelligence, challenging us to look past the hype and consider practical uses for AI, especially in manufacturing and on-device applications. We discussed the current state of large language models, weighing their diminishing returns and exploring the role smaller, distilled models might play in improving efficiency without compromising quality. Justus also shared his thoughts on AI’s implications for automotive suppliers and the evolving AI landscape for companies partnering with tech giants like Microsoft. This was a thought-provoking conversation for anyone curious about AI’s practical journey from cutting-edge research to impactful deployment.

I sat down with Thomas Zuchtriegel, Head of Mobility & Automotive at Journee, to explore the immersive technology reshaping the automotive landscape. Thomas shared insights from his pioneering work in virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), discussing how AI-powered VR is enhancing everything from advertising to in-car experiences. We delved into the potential of virtual showrooms and the metaverse to transform customer engagement, as well as the technical advancements making VR devices more versatile and accessible. With his background, including time at Audi Business Innovation and co-founding CORTICORE, Thomas gave an insider’s look into how data and AI are driving the evolution of immersive experiences in automotive.

I sat down with Tim Cherny, an award-winning design leader with over 20 years’ experience in innovation across industries including automotive, fintech, and digital publishing. Tim shared insights from his extensive career, highlighting his work at Arrival, where he led the design of user-friendly and visually striking experiences that reshaped commercial vehicle interaction. We delved into the evolving landscape of automotive design, discussing the unique challenges and trends in HMI and UX for electric vehicles, and explored the expanding role of AI in shaping intuitive, next-gen user experiences. Tim’s passion for harnessing technology and streamlining design processes shone through, offering a fascinating glimpse into the future of automotive innovation.

I sat down with Bogdan Racotea, founder and CEO of Smart Engineering & Development, to explore the impact of AI on the automotive industry. With over 15 years of experience in software development, systems engineering, and process optimisation, Bogdan has pioneered innovations in connected mobility and autonomous vehicle technology. We discussed practical applications of AI and GenAI in automotive, including in-depth insights into infotainment systems and large language models, as well as the risks and challenges that come with these advancements. Bogdan shared his recommendations for senior leaders navigating AI-driven innovation and offered an inspiring vision for a more efficient, agile automotive industry.

I sat down with Jiamiao LI, a seasoned expert in AI implementation and strategic analysis within the automotive sector, currently driving innovation at Stellantis. With over four years in global regulation for automotive software and connectivity, Jiamiao shared insights into the complexities of AI-driven engineering and the impact of regulatory landscapes on software-defined vehicles. We explored her role in shaping Stellantis’ stance on worldwide regulatory standards, especially around over-the-air updates and cybersecurity—a must for the modern, connected vehicle. Her perspectives on accelerating transformation in automotive engineering offered a fascinating glimpse into the future of AI-enhanced mobility.

In this insightful conversation with Ravi Sibal, former Director at IBM and seasoned expert in automotive and industrial transformation, we unpacked Saudi Arabia’s visionary approach to its burgeoning automotive sector. Ravi offered a deep dive into the Kingdom's strategy, which extends beyond vehicle production to encompass global alliances, fuel innovations, and ambitious export plans. We examined Saudi investments in brands like Ceer and Lucid, with aspirations to attract luxury giants such as Lamborghini, Bentley, and Ferrari. Additionally, Ravi shared his perspective on how Saudi Arabia's substantial investments in AI could synergise with these automotive initiatives, potentially positioning the Kingdom as a key player in the future of smart mobility and industry.

I had a fascinating conversation with Sanjay Madhavarao, Senior Director of Product Management at Qualcomm, about the role of generative AI hardware in transforming the automotive experience. Sanjay shared insights into how generative AI is poised to bring dynamic, intelligent interactions to vehicles, leveraging the expanded screen space and connectivity options cars offer compared to mobile devices. We discussed why edge computing is critical for these in-car applications and explored the concept of “hybrid AI,” blending edge and cloud to maximise performance. Sanjay also provided a glimpse into how generative AI is reshaping the role of product managers, and we wrapped up with future trends set to redefine the digital in-car experience.

I had the privilege of speaking with Andy Wang, a seasoned executive and strategic advisor in automotive, generative AI, and infrastructure, with over 20 years of experience transforming industries through cutting-edge tech solutions. Andy shared his perspectives on the evolving landscape of generative AI and its significant impact on the automotive sector, discussing global developments, regional market dynamics, and the growing role of institutional investment in driving innovation. Drawing insights from recent conferences, we explored how tech companies and OEMs can strategically leverage emerging technologies to stay competitive in a rapidly transforming landscape. Andy provided compelling examples, insightful use cases across different automotive tiers, and shared his recommendations for leaders navigating this pivotal moment in automotive strategy and investment.