Bosch and Volkswagen are collaborating to transition automated driving from a specialized feature to a widely accessible technology, with plans to launch a mass-market solution by mid-2026. Mathias Pillin, Chief Technology Officer of Bosch’s Automotive division, announced the initiative, stating the goal is to make automated driving available to millions of drivers across all vehicle segments.
Peter Bosch, head of Volkswagen’s software division Cariad, emphasized the significance of scale, noting the high production volumes enabled by Volkswagen will facilitate affordable pricing and profitability. The jointly developed software is intended for broad implementation, not as a limited, high-end offering.
Bosch intends to supply the new automated driving technology to other automotive manufacturers as well, reporting considerable interest from companies in Asia, Europe and North America. Early feedback from manufacturers testing near-production prototypes has been positive, according to Bosch’s Pillin.
Notably, both companies highlighted that the artificial intelligence (AI)-based software is a fully independent European development, created without reliance on partnerships with US technology firms. VW’s Bosch asserted this demonstrates the German automotive industry’s mastery of key technologies like AI and automated driving.
Initial deployment of the automated driving system, currently termed an “autopilot”, will be limited to highway driving due to existing regulations. The system is designed to allow drivers to relinquish control for extended periods, while still requiring them to remain prepared to resume manual operation. Bosch and Volkswagen anticipate future regulatory changes will enable the technology to be expanded to include country roads and urban environments, capabilities that are currently prohibited under German law.