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.

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.

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.

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. 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.

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

International Women's Day Special: Nitika Kaul Dhoundiyal was shattered when she came to know that her husband Major Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal was martyred during an operation against the terrorists that took place following the February 14 Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. But now, Nitika has summed up the courage and has decided to follow the footsteps of her late husband. Dhoundiyal is all set to join the Indian Army. She has cleared Services Selection Board (SSB) exam necessary to join the Army. She has also got a call letter from Officers Training Academy or OTA, Chennai for joining as an officer in the technical wing of Indian Army. On the occasion of International Women's Day, she fits as the perfect example for hashtag 'She Inspires Us' which PM Narendra Modi tweeted.

International Women's Day 2020: Pulwama Terror Attack martyr's wife to don Indian Army uniform to fulfil husband's dreams

They hailed from different family backgrounds, belonged to different academic streams, some even pursued a comfortable career path, but what led them to change their path and later united them was the will and patriotic fervour to serve their Motherland - India.

They hailed from different family backgrounds, belonged to different academic streams, some even pursued a comfortable career path, but what led them to change their path and later united them was the will and patriotic fervour to serve their Motherland - India. The prestigious Army Officer’s Training Academy in Chennai is renowned for being the only training institution of the Indian Army that trains women officers. The Academy admits candidates aged between 21 -28, and train them for the Short Service Commission after they clear the tests that are stipulated as per the Services Selection Board. While 153 Gentlemen Cadets and 30 Lady Cadets were commissioned into the Indian Army as Lieutenants, there were 12 Gentlemen cadets and nine Lady cadets from friendly foreign countries that graduated from the academy. They would be commissioned into the forces of their respective countries, on returning. The cadets who hailed from Bhutan, Fiji, Seychelles, Maldives and Uganda were trained on par with their Indian counterparts during their 11-month course at the academy. “Anderson S, a cadet from the Seychelles Army told WION, “Our coursemates very helpful, helped us adapt to India much quicker than we expected. The weapons training we received here was great exposure, we go to fire the 84mm rocket launcher and the 5.56mm INSAS Rifle”. Lt Gen. S K Saini, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, reviewed the parade and addressed the cadets who were over 200 in number. On the external challenges faced by the Army, he said, “weapons proliferation, expansionist global ideologies and cross-border terrorism are the major issues faced and we must strive hard to keep pace and uphold rule of law and rise up to the challenge.” He also mentioned the dynamic role of a soldier in an era when technology is growing at a rapid pace, while also stressing that the man behind the weapon always retains the prime importance. Speaking on the intense training offered at the OTA, Major General A Arun told WION, “in about 46-weeks we transform the civilian boys and girls into capable and confident leaders. We want our Officers to be scholar-soldiers, they are given intense physical and academic training. There are Foreign cadets here offered the same training as our Indian cadets, they happily greet us with a Jai Hind, salute the Tricolor and they are essentially like Indians.” “I am glad the better-educated youth of our country have finally have started making the right choice, there is no doubt, that this is the best job that there is. I have the best job in the world, if you want my job 25 years from now, join us today, we just don’t give you a job, we complete your life, he exuded, hen asked about the students from varied, elite academic institutions joining the Army. Adventure-seekers, Path-breakers - India’s Lady Cadets The Lady cadets that passed out of the academy were a mix of first-generation soldiers and also those that followed the path of their parents. WION spoke to the Lady cadets to understand their choices, sacrifices and gruelling routine. Khushboo Jain (Post Graduate from London School of Economics) “I was a studious kid, I did my under graduation in Shri Ram College of Commerce, Delhi and a Masters in Comparative Politics from London School of Economics. I returned from London and didn’t want to work for a corporate or join the family’s textile business, I knew that I wanted to do something for the nation. I was motivated to join the Army as it is the noblest and honourable profession, it made me a better person in all aspects. Initially, my parents were apprehensive, they asked me to leave the house, but today they were the proudest in the audience”, she told WION. There is not a single soldier in 7 generations of my family, perhaps not even in my entire Jain community, she beams with pride. Anjali Narayan (IT Professional) “I’ve always loved to do challenging roles, an IT Job was not part of my plan. I always wanted to be part of defence forces, but I went with the flow, pursued my B.Tech, then worked in an Indian IT firm in Bengaluru for 3 years. It was then that I got to know about the SSC and OTA. In the SSB Exam, I got through in 4th attempt with an All India First Rank. Earlier I was in a 9 to 5 job and within Air Conditioned confines and here we are drenched in sweat, I love this transformation. IT life was boring for me, I was wasting my life there, she told WION, standing beside her elated parents. Deeksha Yadav (Second-Generation Soldier) “It is indeed a proud feeling to be an Army officer’s daughter and then to be an army officer myself. My natural choice was to join the army. Here our training is on par with the gentlemen cadets, whether its running or other exercises. We are also the champion company, so we are ahead of the Gentlemen companies also. So there’s nothing that women can’t do, we set our own limits, but there is so much more beyond that”, she told WION.

Women cadets shine at Indian Army's Officer’s Training Academy's passing out parade

Head scarf-clad Zuhra Nabizada showed no traces of emotion as she handled the machine gun with the ease of a professional during a training session at the shooting range of the Officers Training Academy here.

She is part of a group of 19 women from the Afghanistan Armed forces honing their skills at the Academy.

Wiping the sweat off her sunburnt face, Afghan Air Force's Second Lieutenant Nabizada said this is her second visit to India.

"The first visit was in 2014 to Dehradun to take part in a Taekwondo match," she said.

India's only academy to impart training to women cadets and officers, OTA is hosting women officers from the Afghanistan Armed Forces for the second time, the first being last year with 20 women.

Afghanistan Army's Liaison Officer Captain Sirajulhaq Safi told PTI that this time officers from the country's Air Force have also joined the programme.

"Compared to last year, the team this year comprises many young officers," Safi said, adding that his country sees the exercise as a knowledge-sharing experience.

The month-long training that began November 26, includes weapons training and drill besides others.

Indian Army's Major Ritu Jaswal said the officers were focused and showed keen interest in what was being taught.

"Each country has a different weapon system... Most of the time they use MI-16 assault rifles, here they get the opportunity to learn to use the Indian Small Arms System - light machine guns," she said.

"However, weather is the major hurdle they face here, as the present temperature in their country is below 5 degree Celsius."

December is the time when Chennai experiences cooler climes, Jaswal, who acted as an interpreter for a majority of the women officers who knew only Pashto and Dari, added.

Nabizada, a trainee pilot, said it was not just about weapons, but the session also fostered her leadership skills and boosted her self-confidence. 
She is the only one of her nine other siblings to have chosen a career in the armed forces.

The squad has mostly women below 30 years, while a 50-year-old officer is the seniormost.

About changes made to the training curriculum since last year, an officer said the duration has been extended to four weeks from three weeks last year.

"This has given us more time to teach the officers about everything that is happening in OTA. They also consider it as a lifetime experience," the officer said.

According to OTA officials, the officers also visited various places in the city during the training period which will end on December 26.

Media personnel were allowed to witness a training session in which the women officers showcased their skills in handling light machine guns at the OTA shooting range, abutting Chennai Airport.

Head scarf-clad Zuhra Nabizada showed no traces of emotion as she handled the machine gun with the ease of a professional during a training session at the shooting range of the Officers Training Academy here.

Head scarf-clad Zuhra Nabizada showed no traces of emotion as she handled the machine gun with the ease of a professional during a training session at the shooting range of the Officers Training Academy here. She is part of a group of 19 women from the Afghanistan Armed forces honing their skills at the Academy. Wiping the sweat off her sunburnt face, Afghan Air Force's Second Lieutenant Nabizada said this is her second visit to India. "The first visit was in 2014 to Dehradun to take part in a Taekwondo match," she said. India's only academy to impart training to women cadets and officers, OTA is hosting women officers from the Afghanistan Armed Forces for the second time, the first being last year with 20 women. Afghanistan Army's Liaison Officer Captain Sirajulhaq Safi told PTI that this time officers from the country's Air Force have also joined the programme. "Compared to last year, the team this year comprises many young officers," Safi said, adding that his country sees the exercise as a knowledge-sharing experience. The month-long training that began November 26, includes weapons training and drill besides others. Indian Army's Major Ritu Jaswal said the officers were focused and showed keen interest in what was being taught. "Each country has a different weapon system... Most of the time they use MI-16 assault rifles, here they get the opportunity to learn to use the Indian Small Arms System - light machine guns," she said. "However, weather is the major hurdle they face here, as the present temperature in their country is below 5 degree Celsius." December is the time when Chennai experiences cooler climes, Jaswal, who acted as an interpreter for a majority of the women officers who knew only Pashto and Dari, added. Nabizada, a trainee pilot, said it was not just about weapons, but the session also fostered her leadership skills and boosted her self-confidence. She is the only one of her nine other siblings to have chosen a career in the armed forces. The squad has mostly women below 30 years, while a 50-year-old officer is the seniormost. About changes made to the training curriculum since last year, an officer said the duration has been extended to four weeks from three weeks last year. "This has given us more time to teach the officers about everything that is happening in OTA. They also consider it as a lifetime experience," the officer said. According to OTA officials, the officers also visited various places in the city during the training period which will end on December 26. Media personnel were allowed to witness a training session in which the women officers showcased their skills in handling light machine guns at the OTA shooting range, abutting Chennai Airport.

Second batch of Afghan women officers undergo training at Officers Training Academy

By Revathi Rajeevan&nbsp;

From a teacher to a warrior, from the widow of Colonel Santosh Mahadik, she is now Lieutenant Swati Santosh Mahadik less than two years after her husband was martyred.

It was an emotional decision for Swati. &quot;Sudden fall in combat and there was no uniform in the house. The person I loved the most had gone. I used to tell him &#39;I am your second love. Your first love is Indian army, your uniform&#39;. I thought let me try and love his first love,&quot; says Swati with her eyes glowing with pride.

With Swati, Santosh left behind their two children - a daughter now aged twelve and a son aged seven. Colonel Santosh Mahadik was the Commanding Officer of 41 Rashtriya Rifles. He was leading his troops in the encounter against terrorists in Kashmir when he died after being shot on November 18, 2015. Swati does not want to recall any of these devastating moments of her life.

&ldquo;I lived with him for more than twelve years. I can think like him now. I know what exactly he would do in each situation,&rdquo; says Swati as she receives her posting order as an officer in Pune. She is one of the 322 cadets who passed out of the Officers&#39;&nbsp;Training Academy in Chennai today. Her induction as an officer comes a day after the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/for-first-time-indian-army-to-take-in-women-soldiers-20010"> army finalised a plan to induct women in the military police </a>which is seen as a move that could break gender barriers in the force.

&quot;It is all in our minds. A bullet does not distinguish or discriminate between a male and a female soldier. You should do what you want to do irrespective of the gender,&rdquo; adds 38-year-old Swati who trained rigorously for a year along with cadets half her age.

Breaking gender barriers in today&rsquo;s passing out parade were 30 other female cadets including Nidhi Dubey, widow of Naik Mukesh Kumar Dubey whom she lost to a cardiac arrest while in service. Nidhi was then pregnant with her now seven-year-old son. &quot;It is for my son that I have chosen to get into his shoes. It is a huge responsibility but I want to learn everything that I can. That is my goal,&quot; says Nidhi.

&ldquo;Women should be allowed in combat roles too. We do everything that men do, all activities. Nothing is impossible is I have learnt in this one year,&rdquo; she adds. 
&nbsp;

From a teacher to a warrior, from the widow of Colonel Santosh Mahadik, she is now Lieutenant Swati Santosh Mahadik less than two years after her husband was martyred

By Revathi Rajeevan From a teacher to a warrior, from the widow of Colonel Santosh Mahadik, she is now Lieutenant Swati Santosh Mahadik less than two years after her husband was martyred. It was an emotional decision for Swati. "Sudden fall in combat and there was no uniform in the house. The person I loved the most had gone. I used to tell him 'I am your second love. Your first love is Indian army, your uniform'. I thought let me try and love his first love," says Swati with her eyes glowing with pride. With Swati, Santosh left behind their two children - a daughter now aged twelve and a son aged seven. Colonel Santosh Mahadik was the Commanding Officer of 41 Rashtriya Rifles. He was leading his troops in the encounter against terrorists in Kashmir when he died after being shot on November 18, 2015. Swati does not want to recall any of these devastating moments of her life. “I lived with him for more than twelve years. I can think like him now. I know what exactly he would do in each situation,” says Swati as she receives her posting order as an officer in Pune. She is one of the 322 cadets who passed out of the Officers' Training Academy in Chennai today. Her induction as an officer comes a day after the army finalised a plan to induct women in the military police which is seen as a move that could break gender barriers in the force. "It is all in our minds. A bullet does not distinguish or discriminate between a male and a female soldier. You should do what you want to do irrespective of the gender,” adds 38-year-old Swati who trained rigorously for a year along with cadets half her age. Breaking gender barriers in today’s passing out parade were 30 other female cadets including Nidhi Dubey, widow of Naik Mukesh Kumar Dubey whom she lost to a cardiac arrest while in service. Nidhi was then pregnant with her now seven-year-old son. "It is for my son that I have chosen to get into his shoes. It is a huge responsibility but I want to learn everything that I can. That is my goal," says Nidhi. “Women should be allowed in combat roles too. We do everything that men do, all activities. Nothing is impossible is I have learnt in this one year,” she adds.

Martyred soldier's wife joins Indian Army

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

International Women's Day 2020: Pulwama Terror Attack martyr's wife to don Indian Army uniform to fulfil husband's dreams

Women cadets shine at Indian Army's Officer’s Training Academy's passing out parade

Second batch of Afghan women officers undergo training at Officers Training Academy

Martyred soldier's wife joins Indian Army