Darmstadt, Germany, December 12, 2024 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced its upcoming 2025 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit. This annual flagship event is slated to take place May 13-15, 2025, at VI-grade’s SimCenter facility in Udine, Italy – the company’s main development hub featuring the full range of simulation software, driving simulators and Hardware-in-the-Loop technologies.
This flagship annual event brings together professionals from across the automotive industry to explore the latest advancements in virtual vehicle development. The 2025 summit will maintain its proven format, offering a blend of:
Keynote and Technical Presentations: Industry leaders, including OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, universities, and research centers, will share their insights, experiences, and best practices in utilizing VI-grade technologies
Hands-On Demonstrations: Attendees will have the opportunity to experience VI-grade’s innovative solutions through interactive sessions tailored to specific automotive applications
Networking and Knowledge Sharing: Numerous opportunities to connect with peers and industry experts, enhancing professional growth and preparing for emerging challenges in the automotive sector.
“The ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit is a cornerstone event for fostering innovation and collaboration within the automotive industry,” said Guido Bairati, Managing Director of VI-grade.“In an era of increasing complexity, cost pressures, and the demand for faster time-to-market, our summit offers a platform for companies to explore how virtual testing – through simulation software, driving simulators, and HiL solutions – can drive resilience and growth. We are excited to once again welcome global industry leaders to our SimCenter in Udine, empowering them to push boundaries and innovate with confidence.”
Udine, Italy, November 14th, 2024 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced the launch of VI-ZeroLatency, an AI-based compensation algorithm based on Sybille® technology supplied by AddFor S.p.A. Integrated within the VI-DriveSim software suite, VI-ZeroLatency ensures near-zero delays across subsystems, significantly enhancing performance of driving simulators and, in the future, remote Hardware-in-the-Loop (HiL) applications.
VI-ZeroLatency leverages artificial intelligence to predict real-time signals from key driving simulator components such as the motion platform, graphics and sound. By employing pre-trained machine learning models, the solution anticipates subsystem responses, allowing for a more realistic driving experience. The AI algorithm is designed to deliver smoother feedback and minimize disturbances caused by latency, enhancing the simulator’s overall performance. Looking ahead, VI-ZeroLatency will also facilitate the remote connection of a vehicle model with a driving simulator or an HiL test bench in different locations, transforming global collaboration among the various vehicle development stakeholders.
VI-ZeroLatency is fully compatible with all VI-grade simulators, requiring no extensive hardware upgrades, making it a cost-effective solution for users looking to enhance their simulation capabilities. As part of VI-DriveSim, the algorithm integrates easily with VI-CarRealTime, VI-WorldSim, VI-SimSound and VI-MotionCueing, ensuring comprehensive, real-time simulation across multiple platforms. VI-ZeroLatency also supports 3rd party vehicle models.
“Reducing latency is essential to delivering a more accurate and realistic simulation experience”, said Guido Bairati, Managing Director at VI-grade. “By integrating artificial intelligence, VI-ZeroLatency takes our simulation solutions to the next level, eliminating noticeable delays and bringing our simulators closer to zero latency. This AI-driven advancement, implemented in collaboration with AddFor, ensures that our customers are equipped with state-of-the-art tools for efficient and accurate virtual vehicle testing.”
Darmstadt, Germany, October 30th, 2024 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced the release of the 2025.1 versions of its flagship products: VI-CarRealTime, VI-WorldSim, VI-NVHSim and VI-DriveSim. These updates deliver enhanced performance, new functionalities, and broader compatibility, further strengthening VI-grade’s commitment to supporting its customers in creating better virtual prototypes and accelerating vehicle development cycles.
VI-CarRealTime 2025.1 introduces significant efficiency improvements, including support for save/restore functionality in plug-ins generated from Simulink and FMU subsystems, and enhanced capabilities for running multiple events in parallel. This version also offers improved computational efficiency for MaxPerformance simulations, leading to a reduction in static calculation time by up to 50%. Users will benefit from new support for user-defined inputs and enhanced scalability features.
VI-WorldSim 2025.1 offers expanded functionalities for immersive simulation environments. Notable features include a new section of the VI-WorldSim ModKit dedicated to creating custom object libraries, regional road signs for the US, Japan, and Italy, improved camera tracking capabilities, and enhanced support for obstacle files and animated steering wheels in VR environments. The new version also offers greater flexibility for object file management and expanded API support for controlling vehicle headlights.
VI-NVHSim 2025.1 continues to push the boundaries of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) simulation. The new release improves usability for projects with complex assemblies, introduces support for VR scenarios, and adds an all-new task manager for recording and managing NVH data. Additional enhancements include a more comprehensive Time History Monitor Display and expanded analog input channels for vibration recordings, ensuring more accurate NVH analysis.
VI-DriveSim 2025.1 introduces several new features to enhance the driving simulation experience, including advanced replay management tools, improved fidelity of Full Spectrum simulators and full compatibility with Simulation Workbench for Windows. This latest release also includes VI-ZeroLatency, an AI-based latency compensation algorithm developed in collaboration with Addfor SpA, powered by Sybille® technology, to minimize latency on motion platforms for a smoother, more responsive simulation experience.
“We are proud to introduce the 2025.1 versions of our flagship simulation solutions, designed to deliver even more robust and precise simulation environments,” commented Roberto De Vecchi, Product Development Manager.“These innovations empower our customers to optimize virtual testing workflows, reduce reliance on physical prototypes, and drive efficiency in vehicle development”
The 2025.1 software release, including a detailed list of new features and enhancements, is now available for download. Registered users can access and download version 2025.1 by logging into the reserved area of the VI-grade website.
Darmstadt, Germany, October 2nd , 2024 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced an expanded collaboration with Applus+ IDIADA, a global leader in design, engineering, testing, and homologation services for the automotive industry. This partnership introduces IDIADA's high-fidelity vehicle models - accurate digital twins based on real-world test data - into VI-grade's VI-CarRealTime software for advanced simulation and testing capabilities.
The collaboration represents a significant step forward in virtual vehicle development, enabling automotive OEMs and suppliers to use IDIADA's validated vehicle models in both offline and online simulations on driving simulators through the VI-CarRealTime platform. These models, derived from physical vehicle testing, allow manufacturers to perform in-depth virtual evaluations of vehicle dynamics and performance with customizable parameters such as tire models and payloads, ensuring more flexible and accurate development workflows.
"We are excited to deepen our relationship with VI-grade," said Guido Tosolin, Senior Manager Chassis Development at Applus+ IDIADA. "The integration of our vehicle models into VI-CarRealTime ensures seamless interaction between virtual and physical test environments, enabling our customers to accelerate development cycles while maintaining uncompromising standards of safety and performance."
“This expanded collaboration with Applus+ IDIADA further strengthens our commitment to our Zero Prototypes strategy, bridging the gap between virtual and physical vehicle testing,” commented Guido Bairati, Managing Director at VI-grade. “By offering vehicle models based on real-world data from IDIADA’s testing facilities, our customers can achieve more accurate simulations and faster development times. This strengthened partnership will greatly enhance their ability to prepare, validate, and refine their vehicle designs in a virtual environment before moving to physical tests.”
Tokyo, Japan, August 7th, 2024 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced the inauguration of Asia’s first Simulation & Virtual Testing Lab, S&VL R&D Center in Ota (Gumma), Japan. This new facility is equipped with VI-grade’s DiM300, an advanced large-scale simulator, building on the success of the award-winning DiM150 and DiM250 models, but with extended workspace through longer tripod actuators.
S&VL is a premier Japanese engineering service provider closely collaborating with key players in the Japanese automotive industry. With the opening of the S&VL R&D Center, S&VL will provide high-level virtual testing services to Japanese automobile manufacturers and suppliers. The company aims to solve challenges faced by all manufacturing industries, including enhancing development efficiency, product quality, and shortening development time using digital and virtual technologies.
With the DiM300, S&VL seeks to promote the wider adoption of driving simulators across the automotive industry, providing its customers with an unparalleled simulation and virtual testing environment to streamline automotive development processes. Based on the same patented architecture as VI-grade’s DiM250 model, the DiM300 introduces a host of cutting-edge features, including an extended operating range and higher tripod velocity. It demonstrates an impressive ability to perform large planar displacements with virtually no motion cueing, offering engineers an unprecedented level of realism and versatility.
"The automotive industry is currently facing a once-in-a-century transformation. In order to survive this new era together with the Japanese automobile industry, there is an urgent need to respond to all kinds of changes, including the environmental performance of electric vehicles, the basic performance of driving, turning, and braking, and autonomous driving/advanced safety. What we should strive for is a development process that allows us to assess reliability before manufacturing. We believe this is digital development using a driving simulator. Installing, maintaining, and operating a driving simulator is very costly, but we hope to lower the barriers so that not only automotive OEMs but also suppliers can use it," said Hideyuki Muramatsu, CEO of S&VL.
"With the opening of the Simulation & Virtual Testing Lab, equipped with our state-of-the-art DiM300 simulator, we are excited to support the Japanese automotive industry in pushing the boundaries of vehicle development. This facility represents a significant step forward in providing engineers with the tools they need to enhance development efficiency and accelerate innovation through advanced simulation technologies.”, commented Guido Bairati, Managing Director of VI-grade.
Darmstadt, Germany, July 31st, 2024 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced that the renowned French sports car manufacturer Alpine Cars has adopted the actuator-based DiM250 DYNAMIC Driving Simulator from VI-grade. Following their initial investment in VI-grade’s STATIC and COMPACT Full-Spectrum Simulator, Alpine has now significantly enhanced their simulation capabilities with the DiM250. The simulator will be installed at Alpine’s Engineering Center in France and is expected to be operational by early 2025.
The DiM250 represents a major advancement in Alpine's simulation capabilities. As part of VI-grade's innovative DiM family, these turnkey driving simulation solutions equip automotive engineers with a comprehensive toolset for system-level simulation, effectively bridging the gap between testing and simulation. Already in use by leading automotive OEMs, motorsport teams, and engineering service providers, the DiM250 supports integrated active and passive vehicle dynamics, ride development, ADAS, and NVH applications.
Featuring a nine-degrees-of-freedom moving platform, the DiM250 delivers enhanced motion feedback to the driver. This advanced design surpasses basic six-actuator systems, offering a larger workspace while maintaining high stiffness. It is ideally suited for analyzing both vehicle dynamics and ride characteristics, capturing the full spectrum of performance metrics essential for automotive chassis design.
With the integration of the DiM250, Alpine is set to tackle the Zero Prototypes Challenge, aiming to minimize reliance on physical prototypes. This strategic move will significantly enhance efficiency in evaluating vehicle parameters and overall performance, accelerating the development of Alpine's future models.
“The ambition of the Alpine brand is strong with a complete and unique vehicle line-up and a desire for international expansion. We position ourselves as the high-tech laboratory of the Renault group. Digital is a fundamental pillar of our strategy to always do better and faster for our customers. Investment in this direction continues and accelerates with the acquisition of a DiM250 driving simulator after a recent investment in a static driving simulator and a Compact FSS from VI-grade” commented Renaud Hantz, Customer Attributes Performance Director at Alpine Cars.
“We are thrilled to support Alpine Cars with our DiM250 DYNAMIC Driving Simulator. Alpine’s choice to adopt this technology highlights their forward-thinking approach and dedication to winning the Zero Prototypes challenge and reducing development cycles through advanced simulation. We look forward to seeing the remarkable advancements they will achieve with this integration.”, commented Alessio Lombardi, EMEA & America Sales Director at VI-grade.
Udine, Italy, July 18th , 2024 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced the launch of its groundbreaking VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground for VI-WorldSim.
The VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground is a comprehensive digital testing facility, meticulously designed to meet the diverse needs of automotive engineers and researchers. With its vast array of features and testing scenarios, it promises to significantly reduce development time and costs while enhancing the overall quality and safety of vehicles.
Key features of the VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground include:
High-speed Ring: An 8.6 km track with four lanes and a maximum banking angle of 11 degrees, perfect for high-speed testing and aerodynamic evaluations.
EU/USA Highways: A 2 km stretch simulating both European and American highway conditions, enabling cross-market vehicle development.
Specialized Testing Areas: Including ride lanes with various surface types, a 3.2 km handling track, a 1.15 km rally track, and a 2.4 km country road based on real-world laser scan data.
ADAS Testing: A dedicated area for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems evaluation, crucial for the development of autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles.
Diverse Road Conditions: Featuring ramps with varying gradients, event lanes with different surface irregularities, and specialized areas for split friction coefficient testing and wet condition simulations.
"The VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground represents a significative advancement in virtual vehicle development," said Dave Bogema, Senior Director of Product Management, VI-grade. "By providing a comprehensive, highly realistic testing environment, we're enabling our clients to push the boundaries of innovation while significantly reducing the time and resources typically required for physical prototyping and testing."
The VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground is fully integrated with VI-WorldSim, the company's advanced simulation software, allowing for seamless implementation into existing development workflows. This integration ensures that automotive companies can leverage their current investments in VI-grade technologies while accessing this cutting-edge virtual proving ground.
The launch of the VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground comes at a critical time for the automotive industry, as manufacturers face increasing pressure to develop safer, more efficient, and technologically advanced vehicles in shorter timeframes. This virtual environment is expected to play a crucial role in meeting these challenges head-on.
For more information about the VI-grade Virtual Proving Ground, follow this link.
Darmstadt, Germany, July 3rd, 2024 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced a strategic partnership with STEP Lab, an industry leader in the design and manufacture of static, dynamic and impact testing machines. This collaboration aims to provide a comprehensive solution in Mechanical Hardware-in-the-Loop (mHiL) for shock absorbers in automotive applications.
The partnership between VI-grade and STEP Lab is designed to provide the market with a turnkey solution that addresses the challenges of integrating advanced technology into industrial applications. By combining the expertise of both companies, the collaboration aims to deliver a fully integrated mHiL solution for shock absorbers, streamlining the development process and reducing the complexity and time required for implementing advanced testing systems in the automotive industry. This comprehensive approach also includes active and semi-active suspension systems and advanced control strategies, leveraging VI-grade's real-time AutoHawk platform and robust software stack.
Key Benefits for Customers:
Time Efficiency: Customers will benefit from interacting with a single partner responsible for the entire system, significantly reducing development times compared to setting up the final solution with multiple partners.
Cost Efficiency: Project costs are optimized through a pre-existing, functional solution, eliminating the need for extensive individual setups.
Application Reliability: Having previously collaborated on similar solutions, VI-grade and Step Lab ensure a reliable and tested approach, enhancing overall project success.
Unified Project Leadership: Customers will interact with the same partner for all aspects of the project, from preliminary definition to final commissioning, ensuring consistency and clarity throughout the process.
Ruggero Baesso, Owner and Founder of STEP Lab, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration: "Partnering with VI-grade marks a significant step forward in advancing Mechanical Hardware-in-the-Loop solutions for the automotive sector. Our goal with this partnership is to achieve a 30% reduction in time to market for automotive shock absorber systems, providing a notable advantage for manufacturers. Combining our mechanical testing expertise with VI-grade's simulation technology, we aim to deliver a comprehensive and efficient solution tailored to industry needs."
“We are excited to enter this strategic partnership with STEP Lab to provide a comprehensive Mechanical Hardware-in-the-Loop solution for automotive shock absorbers”, commented Guido Bairati, Managing Director at VI-grade. “This partnership will allow us to offer our customers a unique, integrated solution that enhances development efficiency and reduces time-to-market. By leveraging Step Lab's expertise in mechanical testing and our advanced software capabilities, we can deliver a reliable and cost-effective solution that meets the evolving needs of the automotive industry,"
To see the partnership in action, watch this demo video of a Damper-in-the-Loop system – real-life component testing with VI-CarRealTime on AutoHawk. This demonstration was presented by STEP Lab at VI-grade's 2024 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit in May 2024 at SimCenter Udine.
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