Strategic collaboration between Mahindra and Vector Informatik

Building a Future-Ready Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) Architecture together for Mahindra’s Electric Origin SUVs.

Bengaluru/2025-01-10 – In response to the increasing demands of Software-Defined Vehicles (SDV), Mahindra initiated a strategic partnership with Vector Informatik to strengthen its network architecture and prepare for future challenges. With over 35 years of industry-leading expertise in embedded systems and digitalization in the automotive sector, Vector provided an extensive range of technical consulting services and solutions. These covered every critical aspect of SDV, from network design and defining use cases to implementing over-the-air (OTA) functions, back-end infrastructure, security, Software Factory, and HIL & SIL testing solutions. This collaboration was guided by the dual challenge of creating a future-ready SDV architecture while incorporating transferable components. The project required a complete redevelopment of the core High-Performance Computing (HPC) and Domain Architecture, along with the integration of existing Software Architecture components. To address concerns about significant architectural changes, Mahindra and Vector worked closely with other partners to align objectives and ensure all requirements were met. Despite an ambitious timeline of just one year, the partners remained steadfast in their commitment to success. The journey began with a series of collaborative workshops held in Stuttgart and India. These workshops provided a platform to share Vector’s approach, address Mahindra’s and its suppliers’ requirements, and define a unified development path. Mahindra’s management made a clear and strategic decision to adopt a future-oriented SDV architecture, fostering alignment across engineering teams, suppliers, and Vector’s local support team in India. The result of this collaboration was a robust solution leveraging Ethernet (ETH) as the network backbone, interconnecting three HPCs and three zonal ECUs. MICROSAR Adaptive was selected as the base layer for the HPCs. MICROSAR Adaptive is used for safety applications, while Android serves as the platform for infotainment. To seamlessly integrate the Android system with the vehicle, Vector's diagnostic and SOME/IP communication solutions were employed. With mutual dedication and close cooperation, Vector and Mahindra successfully delivered the ambitious project within the one-year timeframe, culminating in the definition of the middleware platform for HPCs and zonal ECUs, aptly named "MAIA – Mahindra Artificial Intelligence Architecture." Vector’s comprehensive support included not only embedded software but also tools and equipment for HIL/SIL testing of SDV components. Suppliers were equipped with pre-integrated MICROSAR Adaptive and Classic stacks and received ongoing support for software integration. Furthermore, Vector optimized the network architecture for long-term viability and facilitated strategic discussions between Mahindra and its suppliers to align with overarching SDV goals. This collaborative approach empowered Mahindra to engage with suppliers on complex SDV topics more efficiently and establish an SDV architecture capable of seamless updates and integration of new applications. The partnership showcases the power of strategic cooperation in driving innovation for the future of mobility. Vector Informatik GmbH, President & Managing Director, Dr. Matthias Traub stated: “We are honored to have partnered with Mahindra on this transformative journey toward Software-Defined Vehicles. At Vector, we strive to support our customers with expertise and tools that enable their vision. This collaboration is clear evidence of what can be achieved through mutual trust, teamwork, and a shared commitment to innovation. We are proud to have contributed to Mahindra’s Electric Origin Platform and look forward to seeing its impact on the future of mobility." R.Velusamy, President of Automotive Technology & Product Development, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd & Joint Managing Director, Mahindra Electric Automobile  Limited said that: "Mahindra’s vision of creating a future-ready Electric Origin Platform required a partner with deep expertise in SDV architecture and software. Vector brought a wealth of knowledge, tools, and solutions that were instrumental in this journey. The resulting architecture – MAIA, embodies our commitment to innovation, adaptability, and delivering cutting-edge technology for our customers. This partnership with Vector is a testament to our dedication to shaping the future of mobility together." About Mahindra Founded in 1945, the Mahindra Group is one of the largest and most admired multinational federation of companies with 260000 employees in over 100 countries. It enjoys a leadership position in farm equipment, utility SUVs, information technology and financial services in India and is the world’s largest tractor company by volume. It has a strong presence in renewable energy, agriculture, logistics, hospitality, and real estate. The Mahindra Group has a clear focus on leading ESG globally, enabling rural prosperity and enhancing urban living, with a goal to drive positive change in the lives of communities and stakeholders to enable them to Rise.

About Vector: Vector is the leading manufacturer of software tools and components for the development of software-based electronic systems and their networking. For more than 35 years, Vector has been a capable partner in the development of automotive electronics. More than 4,500 employees at 33 locations worldwide support manufacturers and suppliers of the automotive industry and related industries with a professional platform of tools, software components and services for developing embedded systems. Driven the passion for technology Vector develops solutions which relieve engineers of their demanding tasks. Vector is headquartered in Germany (Stuttgart) and has subsidiaries in Brazil, China, France, Great Britain, India, Italy, Japan, Austria, Romania, Sweden, South Korea, Spain, and the USA. Efficient, technical solutions are Vector’s passion. Customers value Vector as a reliable and technically competent partner in terms of efficient solutions for developing embedded systems. Customers from automotive, commercial vehicle, aeronautical, transport and control engineering worldwide rely on the solutions and products of the independent Vector groups.