The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) took place in Las Vegas this week, with numerous companies presenting new innovations in the mobility sector. We have summarized the key highlights in a dedicated article. 

The Eclipse Foundation, one of the world’s largest open source software foundations, and the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA)  announced a significant expansion of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for an Automotive-Grade Open Source Software Ecosystem, transforming this group into one of the most advanced collaborations on next-generation vehicle design in the world.

Launched in June 2025 with 11 signatories, the MoU now includes 32 global companies, representing leaders across the entire automotive value chain. This reflects significant momentum and strong industry alignment around an open, interoperable, and certifiable software foundation for next-generation mobility, implemented within the Eclipse SDV Working Group.

This MoU group expands to become one of the world’s largest and most advanced open source ecosystems focused on code-first solutions for next-generation mobility.  New signatories include an array of industry leaders and innovators, such as 42dot, Accenture, AVL, Capgemini, Coretura, Cummins, ECARX, Elektrobit, Infineon, LEAR, LG Electronics, Michelin, MOBIS, QNX, Qualcomm, Red Hat, Schaeffler, Stellantis, Traton, T-Systems, and Useblocks joining founding participants Aumovio, BMW, Bosch, ETAS, Hella, Mercedes-Benz, Qorix, Valeo, Vector, Volkswagen, and ZF.

At the centre of this collaboration is Eclipse S-CORE, an open source, automotive-grade software stack developed within the Eclipse SDV Working Group. S-CORE brings together multiple SDV projects into a common reference stack and tooling environment designed to support certifiable, production-ready automotive software.

In November 2025, Eclipse S-CORE delivered its first public release (version 0.5), marking a key milestone and demonstrating the practical results of coordinated open source development. A full release is planned for 2026, targeting vehicle programs expected to reach the market at the latest by 2030.

With the transfer of Alpina brand rights on January 1, 2026, the launch of BMW ALPINA as an independent, exclusive brand within the BMW Group has officially begun. The initial focus will be on brand activation. Central elements of the BMW ALPINA brand will be the unique balance of maximum performance and superior driving comfort, combined with the marque's signature driving feel. This will be complemented by an exclusive range of customization options, materials, and distinctive details.

The Volkswagen Group has introduced a new cockpit generation with the presentation of the new ID. Polo, intended to serve as the technological standard for upcoming models.

The new cockpit architecture is defined by two large displays arranged on a single visual axis. This includes the "Digital Cockpit" located behind the steering wheel with a 10.25-inch (26.0 cm) diagonal screen, and a nearly 13-inch (33 cm) infotainment touch display. The graphics are high-resolution and precise, and the center display is easily accessible for the passenger.

Buttons for central climate functions and hazard lights are integrated into a separate bar below the infotainment screen. Also completely new is the multifunction steering wheel with clearly organized button layouts. Located between the smartphone tray and cup holders is a rotary dial accessible to both driver and passenger for audio control—allowing for volume adjustment as well as changing songs and stations via a track function.

The "ID.Light" has also been significantly evolved. The interactive and intuitive light strip at the base of the windshield now extends not only across the width of the instrument panel but also into the front door areas. Additionally, the digital cockpit displays can transform into classic retro views of the 1980s Golf I.

A significant strategic step in the field of autonomous mobility is the acquisition of the Deutsche Bahn subsidiary ioki by Benteler. According to the company, the successful acquisition creates the first full-service provider for autonomous mobility in Europe, combining the strengths of ioki, HOLON, and Benteler Mobility. Specifically, HOLON produces the autonomous HOLON urban shuttle, ioki provides the platform and routing technology for on-demand and public transport integration, and Benteler Mobility manages the operation and financing of autonomous fleets.