VI-grade and HBK Announce SMART PROTOTYPES Summit 2026
Udine, Italy, October 9th, 2025 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, together with HBK, today announced the upcoming Smart Prototypes Summit 2026. The event will be hosted on May 19–21, 2026, at the VI-grade SimCenter in Udine, Italy, one of HBK’s technology hubs featuring the full range of vehicle simulation software, professional driving simulators, hardware-in-the-loop platforms, and physical test solutions.
Building on the proven success of the ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit series, the SMART PROTOTYPES Summit represents the next step in HBK’s vision to unify physical and virtual testing in one connected environment. The event will showcase how smart prototypes are the new generation of development platforms where virtual and physical worlds operate as one, combining simulation, testing, and data intelligence in a seamless, connected workflow that drives better, faster, and more sustainable innovation.
The 2026 edition will bring together OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, technology providers, and research institutions for three days of:
“After years of advancing virtual testing with our ZERO PROTOTYPES Summits, the Smart Prototypes Summit 2026 reflects the next evolution,” said Gabriele Ferrarotti, Sr. Marketing Director, VI-grade – HBK Virtual Test. “By connecting virtual and physical testing in one unified environment, we enable our customers to turn data into intelligence, accelerate decision-making, and deliver smarter vehicles faster and more sustainably.”
“The Smart Prototypes Summit is not only about technology but about transformation,” added Guido Bairati, VP Global Sales, HBK Physical Test. “By combining simulation-first approaches with real-world test validation and data intelligence, we create a continuous feedback loop that helps the industry reduce risk, shorten development cycles, and unlock innovative solutions to tomorrow’s challenges.”
Official registration will open on November 19th, 2025. Join the waitlist before that date to stay updated about the event and enter a drawing for a free Summit pass: /sps2026
Building on the proven success of the ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit series, the SMART PROTOTYPES Summit represents the next step in HBK’s vision to unify physical and virtual testing in one connected environment. The event will showcase how smart prototypes are the new generation of development platforms where virtual and physical worlds operate as one, combining simulation, testing, and data intelligence in a seamless, connected workflow that drives better, faster, and more sustainable innovation.
The 2026 edition will bring together OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, technology providers, and research institutions for three days of:
- Keynote and technical presentations: Insights from leading voices on the convergence of physical and virtual testing, data-driven workflows, and smart engineering ecosystems in the field of vehicle dynamics, Ride, NVH, ADAS, HMI, durability, reliability and electric powertrain testing.
- Hands-On demonstrations: Live experiences combining driving simulators, virtual engineering platforms, and integrated test solutions.
- Interactive training and User Groups: Complimentary sessions designed to deepen expertise and foster collaboration between customers and product teams.
- Networking opportunities: A unique forum to connect with peers, partners, and thought leaders shaping the future of mobility.
“After years of advancing virtual testing with our ZERO PROTOTYPES Summits, the Smart Prototypes Summit 2026 reflects the next evolution,” said Gabriele Ferrarotti, Sr. Marketing Director, VI-grade – HBK Virtual Test. “By connecting virtual and physical testing in one unified environment, we enable our customers to turn data into intelligence, accelerate decision-making, and deliver smarter vehicles faster and more sustainably.”
“The Smart Prototypes Summit is not only about technology but about transformation,” added Guido Bairati, VP Global Sales, HBK Physical Test. “By combining simulation-first approaches with real-world test validation and data intelligence, we create a continuous feedback loop that helps the industry reduce risk, shorten development cycles, and unlock innovative solutions to tomorrow’s challenges.”
Official registration will open on November 19th, 2025. Join the waitlist before that date to stay updated about the event and enter a drawing for a free Summit pass: /sps2026
German version available here