Stellantis software revenue soars 150 per cent as 94 million OTA updates roll out

Stellantis, the multinational automotive manufacturing corporation encompassing 14 brands, has reported significant growth in its connected vehicle services. Since 2021, the company has seen a 2.5-fold increase in high-margin revenue from software and connected services, with its global subscriber base expanding to 5 million users.

The company's monetisable car parc has grown by 15 per cent to 13.8 million vehicles. In 2023 alone, Stellantis delivered over 94 million over-the-air (OTA) updates, enhancing features in existing vehicles and laying the groundwork for future software expansion.

Stellantis is leveraging cloud-based design and testing tools, including its innovative Virtual Engineering Workbench, to revolutionize automotive software development in terms of speed, quality, and deployment. This in-house developed software, along with contributions from strategic partners, enables next-generation features for both upcoming and current Stellantis vehicles.

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Yves Bonnefont, Stellantis Chief Software Officer, highlighted the company's shift from a traditional automotive mindset to a more agile, startup-like approach. This transformation has allowed Stellantis to build its own software creation capabilities, providing crucial flexibility and a competitive edge in the industry.

The company is now focusing on scaling up its operations, preparing for the integration of three AI-powered technology platforms: STLA Brain, STLA SmartCockpit, and STLA AutoDrive. These platforms represent Stellantis' commitment to in-house software development, utilising a global network of technology hubs to work around the clock on customized software products for each vehicle platform.

STLA Brain, the foundational architecture, offers centralised computing with full over-the-air access to sensors and actuators. It aims to reduce vehicle complexity by halving the number of electronic control units (ECUs) to approximately 60 per vehicle. This platform enables faster feature development, with new capabilities potentially ready in less than six months - a quarter of the current timeframe. Technology readiness for integration is expected by the end of the year, with vehicle integration planned for 2025.

STLA SmartCockpit focuses on personalisation and connected capabilities, powered by machine learning and AI technologies. It aims to provide seamless integration with users' digital lives, featuring simplified menus and AI-enabled experiences for various in-vehicle functions. This platform is set to debut in a Stellantis brand vehicle in 2025.

STLA AutoDrive builds upon the capabilities of STLA Brain and STLA SmartCockpit to deliver advanced, continuously updated Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) technology. The system aims to significantly increase uninterrupted time and distance for ADAS-supported driving, targeting both hands-off/eyes-off-the-road mobility, and a fallback to limited hands-off/eyes-on-the-road cruising within the same system. Eyes-off technology readiness for integration is anticipated by the end of the year, with a commercial launch planned for 2025.

These developments underscore Stellantis' commitment to innovation in connected vehicle technology and software-defined automobiles, positioning the company at the forefront of the automotive industry's digital transformation.