Udine, Italy, June 12th, 2025 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced the release of version 2025.2 of its comprehensive software suite, including VI-CarRealTime, VI-WorldSim, VI-DriveSim, and VI-NVHSim. This new release delivers a range of usability and performance enhancements, with a particular focus on VI-WorldSim Headlights, the company’s advanced headlight simulation module.

VI-WorldSim Headlights now offers real-time simulation at up to 120Hz, allowing engineers to evaluate and compare advanced headlight systems in virtual environments without interrupting the simulation workflow. The module supports IES profile imports, matrix headlights, and dynamic runtime configuration switching. Headlight evaluations can be conducted under a wide range of environmental and lighting conditions, with full support for subjective testing, ADAS integration, and adaptive headlight behaviors such as cornering and pitch/yaw motion.

“With the latest version of VI-WorldSim, we are pushing the boundaries of how lighting systems are developed and validated virtually,” said Roberto De Vecchi, Director of Product Development at VI-grade. “VI-WorldSim Headlights provides a powerful and flexible environment for engineers to explore headlight design concepts, simulate edge-case scenarios, and evaluate performance with a level of realism and responsiveness that is unique in our industry.”

Alongside the spotlight enhancements to headlight simulation, the 2025.2 software suite introduces improvements across VI-grade’s full software stack:

• VI-CarRealTime gains enhanced diagnostic tools for parameter tuning and test automation, along with integration and support of VI-DataDrive Cloud. 
• VI-DriveSim introduces real-time DLSS lighting tuning support and FMU export in multi-event mode, along with the inclusion of VI-ZeroLatency and enhanced multi-attribute simulation capabilities.
• VI-NVHSim has been updated with new functionalities to support EV modelling, expanded sound design capabilities, and enhanced multi-attribute simulation features.

All updates reflect VI-grade’s continued commitment to providing customers with high-fidelity, real-time simulation tools that support the growing demands of modern vehicle development including software-defined vehicles, electrification, and integrated ADAS systems.

The 2025.2 software release, including a detailed list of new features and enhancements, is now available for download.  Registered users can access and download version 2025.2 by logging into the reserved area of the VI-grade website.

An upcoming webinar on June 26, 2025, will provide additional insights into the new Investigation and Diagnostic Modes introduced in VI-DataDrive Cloud. The session will cover practical applications of the latest VI-CarRealTime 2025.2 features for cloud-based analysis and simulation workflows. Registration is open at this link. 

Udine, Italy, Jun 4th, 2025 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced the official launch of HexaRev, its latest and most advanced Driver-in-the-Loop (DiL) motion platform. The HexaRev was exclusively unveiled in May at the 2025 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit (ZPS2025), held at VI-grade’s SimCenter in Udine, Italy.

HexaRev represents a new benchmark in simulation-led development and is a significant technological milestone in VI-grade’s Full Spectrum Simulator (FSS) product family, redefining the boundaries of motion realism and immersive simulation. With a revolutionary new mechanical architecture and direct-drive design, HexaRev delivers unprecedented fidelity, system responsiveness, and motion efficiency, making it the most advanced 6-degree-of-freedom (6-DoF) simulator ever developed by VI-grade.

“The launch of HexaRev marks a major step forward in simulation realism,” said Dave Bogema, Senior Director, Product Management at VI-grade. “With its innovative mechanical simplicity and unmatched motion performance, HexaRev delivers a whole new level of immersion for vehicle development teams around the world. It’s not just a motion platform, it’s the new benchmark for Driver-in-the-Loop simulation.”

Redefining Motion in Driver-in-the-Loop Simulation

HexaRev is a high-performance 6-DoF platform designed to overcome the limitations of traditional hexapod-based motion systems. While conventional designs suffer from restricted motion envelopes during multi-axis input, HexaRev introduces a new mechanical and kinematic concept that dramatically expands usable motion during complex, combined maneuvers.

This breakthrough enables development teams to evaluate vehicle behavior in highly dynamic scenarios, such as braking while cornering or acceleration through a chicane, with greater realism and accuracy.

Key highlights include:

• Approx. 50% improvement in motion envelope-to-footprint efficiency over traditional hexapods
• Direct drive architecture with no belts, gears, or ball screws, resulting in low latency and virtually zero mechanical noise or parasitic vibration
• Mechanical simplicity that increases reliability and minimizes maintenance

HexaRev + Hyperdock: Full-Spectrum Simulation, Redefined

When combined with VI-grade’s Hyperdock, the HexaRev platform transforms into a Full Spectrum Simulator (FSS), capable of delivering synchronized motion, vibration, and sound for a complete sensory experience. The full HexaRev FSS configuration offers:

• Motion: Accurate, real-time 6-DoF vehicle movement
• Vibration: 7-DoF high-frequency tactile feedback at key driver touchpoints, replicating road texture, engine behavior, and chassis harmonics
• Sound: Immersive acoustic rendering delivered through cockpit speakers or headphones

These features are fully integrated with VI-grade’s proprietary VI-ZeroLatency technology, creating an ultra-responsive simulation environment that empowers drivers and engineers to experience digital prototypes with unparalleled realism.

A New Standard for Simulation-Led Development

HexaRev joins the VI-grade Full Spectrum Simulator family alongside the Compact FSS (launched in 2023) and DiM FSS (2024), forming a comprehensive portfolio of simulation solutions tailored to a wide range of applications. From vehicle dynamics and ride comfort to NVH, ADAS, and HMI evaluation, HexaRev is engineered to deliver the highest levels of immersion and precision for virtual vehicle development. Its debut at ZPS2025 attracted top industry leaders, engineers, and simulation specialists, all eager to experience the next leap in DiL technology. 

To see HexaRev in action at VI-grade’s SimCenter in Udine, Italy, contact our team to learn how this advanced solution can support your vehicle development process.

Udine, Italy, May 28th, 2025 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced that Brembo, a global leader in braking systems, has implemented VI-CarRealTime, VI-grade’s real-time vehicle simulation environment, as part of its software development process. With a clear ambition to lead innovation in braking technologies, Brembo has adopted VI-CarRealTime at its Brembo Coding Hub in Sunnyvale, California. The implementation supports Brembo’s objective of advancing the virtual development and testing of control software functions for braking systems, enabling a faster and more effective workflow in the early stages of development.

VI-CarRealTime provides Brembo with a simplified yet high-fidelity real-time vehicle simulation environment, which allows its engineering teams to test control logics virtually before performing more extensive on-vehicle testing. By using VI-CarRealTime, Brembo is able to minimize the configuration time required for new vehicle dynamics simulations and shorten development loops, ultimately accelerating the overall controls development process.

“We’re proud to support Brembo with our VI-CarRealTime solution,” commented Alessio Lombardi, Vice President Sales EMEA and North America at VI-grade. “VI-CarRealTime offers a single, customizable vehicle model for concept through sign-off, enabling rapid model configuration and seamless integration with third-party tools. It’s designed to speed up development cycles and improve collaboration across teams – a perfect fit for the agile and innovative environment of the Brembo Coding Hub.”

“The adoption of VI-CarRealTime enables us to develop and validate control logics in a virtual environment, significantly reducing time-to-test and supporting our goal of creating smarter, more responsive braking systems,” said Alessandro Bertagna, Brembo Coding Hub Coordinator at Brembo. “We look forward to leveraging the tool’s full capabilities to enhance our control development workflow.”

Udine, Italy, May 22nd, 2025 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced the successful conclusion of its 2025 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit. Held from May 13 – 15 at VI-grade’s SimCenter in Udine, Italy, the event attracted over 1,500 participants – nearly 300 attending in person and more than 1,200 joining via livestream – marking the largest and most impactful Summit to date.

Now in its fourth edition at VI-grade’s main technology hub, the ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit has become a global benchmark point for innovation in virtual vehicle development. In a year of transformation across the automotive industry, the 2025 Summit provided a vital platform for collaboration - bringing together representatives from 24 major automotive OEMs, 17 Tier 1 suppliers and engineering service providers, 6 academic and research institutions, and supported by 27 industry sponsors. This diverse and engaged participation highlights the Summit’s growing importance in uniting all key stakeholders around a common vision for simulation-driven development. The official after movie, capturing the spirit of the 2025 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit, is available at this link.

The proven event format once again combined hands-on demonstrations, technical presentations, and networking opportunities, resulting in 989 hands-on demo sessions delivered across VI-grade’s software, driving simulators, and HiL solutions. In parallel, 24 customer presentations highlighted real-world applications of VI-grade technology, featuring speakers from companies including Alpine, Applus+ IDIADA & Hyundai METC, Aston Martin Lagonda, Automobili Lamborghini, Brembo, Bridgestone EMIA, CATL & HORIBA MIRA, EDAG Group, Ferrari, Ford Werke, HBK nCode, Honda R&D, Multimatic, Pirelli & MegaRide, Porsche Engineering, S&VL & SUBARU, Stellantis & Meccanica 42, T.R.E Team Rosberg Engineering, the Automotive Solution Center for Simulation (ASCS), and Volvo Cars.

The Summit featured two major product launches:

• HexaRev, VI-grade’s most advanced motion system to date, delivers smoother, more precise, and immersive driver-in-the-loop experiences. With a novel mechanical design that eliminates belts, gears, and ball-screws, HexaRev offers a significantly expanded and more efficient motion envelope, particularly during complex, multi-axis maneuvers.
• VI-DataDrive Cloud, a new cloud-based simulation and data processing ecosystem, drastically reduces run times for high-fidelity vehicle models while supporting scalable and collaborative workflows. As a core pillar of VI-grade’s “Zero Prototype Lab” vision, VI-DataDrive Cloud enables efficient engineering at scale through AI-powered digital twins.

To reach a wider audience, VI-grade will gradually release proceedings and session recordings on its website and YouTube channel. Additionally,  follow-up webinars on Mobex and SAE are scheduled for May 28, and will highlight presentations and discussions.

“In times of change, the industry’s commitment to advancing simulation-first development is stronger than ever,” said Gabriele Ferrarotti, Sr. Marketing Director at VI-grade. “The success of this year’s ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit is not only reflected in record-breaking attendance, but also in the quality of engagement, the collaborative spirit on display, and the shared belief that virtual development is the way forward. We are proud to see the Summit evolving into a global benchmark showing how simulation-driven development can unite innovation, resilience, and collaboration on a worldwide scale.”

Building on the success of the flagship event in Italy, VI-grade will expand the ZERO Prototypes vision to other key regions:

• On June 12, the North American ZERO PROTOTYPES Day will take place at Multimatic’s SimCenter in Novi, Michigan.
• On September 12, VI-grade will host the Japanese edition of the ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit at the Shinagawa Center in Tokyo.

These regional events aim to extend the impact of the Summit and engage local communities in simulation-driven development.

VI-grade gratefully acknowledges the support of its 2025 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit sponsors:

• Diamond: EDAG Group
• Platinum: Applus+ IDIADA, Dassault Systèmes, Hexagon, HORIBA MIRA, MdynamiX, Meccanica 42, MegaRide, Rebel Dynamics, SAGInoMIYA 
• Gold: ASCS, Barco, ICT AG, Multimatic
• Silver: 3D Mapping Solutions, Fraunhofer Institut ITWM, Gamma Technologies, Lifetouch, New Eagle, project: syntropy, RE:LAB, Rohde & Schwarz, Smart Eye, STEP Lab
• Bronze: BE CAE & Test, JEDAi, MOOG
• Media Partners: ATZ, Automotive Testing Technology International, engineering.com. SAE Media Group, Vehicle Dynamics International 

Udine, Italy, May 7th, 2025 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced the launch of VI-DataDrive Cloud, the first release in its broader VI-DataDrive ecosystem. VI-DataDrive Cloud is a powerful, cloud-based simulation and data processing platform designed to drastically reduce run times for complex vehicle models while enabling more collaborative and scalable engineering workflows. 

VI-DataDrive Cloud marks a foundational step in VI-grade’s Zero Prototype Lab vision, where physical prototypes are increasingly replaced by high-fidelity digital twins powered by cloud and AI technologies. Developed with HBK’s Digital Solution Group, VI-DataDrive Cloud addresses the limitations of local simulation. By leveraging scalable cloud infrastructure, it runs multiple VI-CarRealTime instances in parallel, accelerating Max Performance simulations, DOEs, and model diagnostics. This makes it possible to execute studies that would otherwise be time-prohibitive, particularly for advanced vehicle dynamics development and system-level investigations.

“Our customers are increasingly faced with the need to evaluate complex scenarios across many conditions, quickly and accurately,” said Roberto De Vecchi, Head of Product Development at VI-grade. “VI-DataDrive Cloud delivers a step change in simulation capability by eliminating bottlenecks in model execution and enabling seamless team collaboration through centralized data access and customizable result visualization. This is the first building block of a broader cloud-based and AI-driven vision we’re bringing to life with VI-DataDrive.”

In addition to scalable simulation execution, VI-DataDrive Cloud features a customizable post-processing environment. Results can be visualized online, downloaded for local analysis, and easily shared across engineering teams. Hierarchical user and team management allows for secure and efficient collaboration across organizations.

Engineers can now increase the scope of Investigation Mode DOEs, analyze Max Performance events on longer tracks, and integrate simulation into Continuous Integration (CI) workflows using Diagnostic Mode. The system also supports models with full plugin, FMU, and actuator extensions, ensuring broad applicability in real-world development environments.

The solution will be demoed for the first time at the upcoming 2025 ZERO Prototypes Summit event taking place in Udine, Italy, and featured in a dedicated presentation by the first customer utilizing it.

Udine, Italy, April 16, 2025 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric, simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced the final agenda for the 2025 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit, taking place May 13–15, 2025, at the VI-grade SimCenter in Udine, Italy. The summit will bring together leading voices from across the automotive industry to explore the future of simulation-driven vehicle development. With the full agenda now available online, this year’s event promises a broader, more immersive experience for both on-site and remote participants. 

More than 20 confirmed speakers will take the stage, representing a diverse range of OEMs, Tier
1 suppliers, and technology partners, including Alpine, Applus+ IDIADA & Hyundai METC, Aston Martin Lagonda, Automobili Lamborghini, Brembo, Bridgestone EMIA, CATL & HORIBA MIRA, EDAG Group, Ferrari, Ford Werke, HBK nCode, Honda R&D, Multimatic, Pirelli & MegaRide, Porsche Engineering, S&VL & SUBARU, Stellantis & Meccanica 42, T.R.E Team Rosberg Engineering, the Automotive Solution Center for Simulation (ASCS) and Volvo Cars. 

A highlight of the summit will be a dynamic panel discussion on “The Role of AI and Machine Learning in Shaping the Future of Car Technology”, where industry thought leaders will unpack how emerging technologies are driving the evolution of software-defined vehicles, ADAS, and development workflows.

Attendees joining in person will benefit from a rich, hands-on program that includes:

• Complimentary Software Training: Targeted training sessions will be offered for both new and experienced users, covering VI-CarRealTime, VI-WorldSim, VI-NVHSim, VI-Driver, VI-DriveSim, and SIMulation Workbench.
• Hands -On Live Demo Experiences: Participants will explore the latest in simulator and Hardware-in-the-Loop technologies through 12 dedicated demo stations, including VI-grade’s DiM dynamic simulators and AutoHawk XiL platform.
• Interactive User Group Meetings: Back by popular demand, VI-grade will host user group sessions focused on NVH and driving simulation, facilitating a vital exchange of knowledge and insights between customers and product teams.

For those unable to attend the event in-person, all presentations will be streamed live on LinkedIn, building on the successful remote participation format from previous years. The livestream is divided into four individual sessions, each of which requires separate registration. Online attendance is free-of-charge and registration is via LinkedIn.

• Session 1
• Session 2
• Session 3
• Session 4

VI-grade is pleased to again confirm media partnerships with ATZ, Automotive Testing Technology International, Vehicle Dynamics International, and SAE Media Group, further extending the reach of the event to the global automotive engineering community.

“We’re proud that the ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit has established itself as a landmark event within the virtual vehicle development community,” said Alessio Lombardi, Vice President Sales EMEA and North America at VI-grade. “With a broader speaker lineup, extended demonstration offerings, and a full schedule of complimentary software training sessions, this year’s edition promises even greater value for professionals looking to accelerate innovation and reduce reliance on physical prototypes.”

VI-grade gratefully acknowledges the support of its 2025 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit sponsors:

• Diamond: EDAG Group
• Platinum: Applus+ IDIADA, Dassault Systèmes, Hexagon, HORIBA MIRA, MdynamiX, Meccanica 42, MegaRide, Rebel Dynamics, SAGInoMIYA 
• Gold: ASCS, Barco, ICT AG, Multimatic
• Silver: 3D Mapping Solutions, Fraunhofer Institut ITWM, Gamma Technologies, New Eagle, project: syntropy, Rohde & Schwarz, Smart Eye, STEP Lab
• Bronze: BE CAE & Test, JEDAi, MOOG 

Registration for the 2025 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit is open at this link. Discounts for multiple attendees from the same organization, universities etc. are available upon request. Additional details about the event will be added to the VI-grade website as they become available.
 

Santa Oliva, Spain, April 10, 2025 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced that Applus+ IDIADA, a leading company specialized in providing design, engineering, testing and homologation services to the automotive industry worldwide, has decided to upgrade their existing DiM250 driving simulator from VI-grade installed at their Santa Oliva facility, extending its capabilities into high-frequency vibration comfort and NVH development.

At the heart of this next-generation platform is VI-grade’s Hyperdock - a lightweight, modular cockpit equipped with precisely calibrated shakers at driver contact points. Coupled with the DiM250 dynamic driving simulator, the configuration delivers accurate, real-time acceleration feedback derived from high-fidelity vehicle models, enabling engineers to assess handling, comfort, and NVH performance simultaneously, and from the earliest stages of design. This evolved configuration of their DiM250 driving simulator will be accessible to automotive manufacturers worldwide at IDIADA’s proving ground in the second half of 2025.

"Until now, automotive engineers have faced a significant challenge: while virtual simulation has advanced handling and steering development, ride comfort and NVH - especially in the secondary ride comfort domain - remained difficult to optimize before physical prototype testing," commented Guido Tosolin, Senior Manager Vehicle Dynamics at Applus+ IDIADA. "This integrated platform solves this long-standing industry problem."

The new system integrates multiple advanced technologies within a single simulation loop:

• High-definition real-time multi-body vehicle models paired with high-frequency transfer function models
• State-of-the-art VI-NVHSim Simulator Software from VI-grade for comprehensive vehicle NVH model preparation and acoustic feedback
• The latest generation AutoHawk 32 hard-real-time machine, powered by Concurrent Real-Time supporting complex, full-vehicle models with hundreds of degrees of freedom

This comprehensive virtual development environment offers automotive manufacturers three key benefits:

1. Creation of first-time-right prototypes, reducing costly iterations
2. Simultaneous optimization of handling and comfort characteristics
3. Accurate subjective evaluation, complete with vibration feedback, before physical prototypes are built

The solution is particularly valuable for optimizing long-lead and structurally critical components such as bushings, subframes, and body systems, which are traditionally difficult to validate until late-stage testing.

“The installation of this integrated simulation platform at IDIADA represents a natural and strategic evolution of the DiM250 simulator they already operate,” said Alessio Lombardi, Vice President Sales EMEA and North America at VI-grade. “It’s also a significant step forward in bringing full-spectrum simulation capabilities to the forefront of vehicle development. This success reflects the strong momentum for human-centric simulation across the industry, and we’re proud to support IDIADA in delivering cutting-edge engineering services to their global customer base.”

More details about this collaboration and technology will be unveiled during IDIADA’s participation as partner and speaker at VI-grade’s 2025 ZERO PROTOTYPES Summit.

Udine, Italy, March 20th, 2025 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced the launch of AutoHawk Extreme, the most performant configuration of its XiL simulation platform to date, powered by Concurrent Real-Time technology. Designed for real-time detailed multibody simulations, AutoHawk Extreme delivers industry-leading speed and efficiency while maintaining a quiet, liquid-cooled design that allows seamless integration into office environments.

AutoHawk Extreme sets a new benchmark for real-time simulation performance. Equipped with 8 performance cores running at 5.0 GHz, 12 efficiency cores at 4.0 GHz, and DDR5 RAM clocked at 6000 MHz, this system surpasses existing AutoHawk configurations for real-time execution of simulations that require up to 7 high-frequency performance cores for computationally intensive tasks while still utilizing the 12 efficiency cores for ancillary, less demanding models. This makes it the ideal solution for high-fidelity, real-time vehicle dynamics and multi-body simulations, delivering raw computational power through overclocked CPUs and high-speed memory for compute-heavy low-latency applications. A key differentiator of AutoHawk Extreme is its liquid cooling system, which prevents thermal throttling, while maintaining system stability, performance, and low noise levels. This makes it ideal for office environments. 

The system is also designed with multiple PCIe slots, allowing users to customize and expand their setup with additional I/O boards. Furthermore, AutoHawk Extreme is fully compatible with PCIe expansion chassis, ensuring flexibility for future requirements.

“AutoHawk Extreme represents a major advancement in real-time simulation technology," commented Guido Bairati, Managing Director at VI-grade. "This next-generation XiL simulation platform offers twice the performance of the previous AutoHawk 24 generation, all while maintaining an attractive price-performance ratio. By combining cutting-edge computational power with a silent, liquid-cooled design, AutoHawk Extreme enables engineers to push the boundaries of real-time simulation with greater accuracy and efficiency"

"We are excited to introduce AutoHawk Extreme to the market," commented Anish Anthony, Vice President of Technology, Concurrent Real-Time. "Whether used as a standalone high-performance simulation station or in combination with VI-grade’s driving simulators, AutoHawk Extreme offers a versatile and efficient solution for engineers and simulation teams working in diverse development settings. It is designed to meet the increasing demands of modern automotive development, enabling precise and reliable simulation for a wide range of applications."