Step into the next era of product development at the 2026 Smart Prototypes Summit!
Experience virtual and physical testing coming together
in one intelligent ecosystem to drive smarter, faster innovation.
Step into the next era of product development at the 2026 Smart Prototypes Summit!
Experience virtual and physical testing coming together
in one intelligent ecosystem to drive smarter, faster innovation.
Step into the next era of product development at the 2026 Smart Prototypes Summit!
Experience virtual and physical testing coming together
in one intelligent ecosystem to drive smarter, faster innovation.
Udine, Italy, November 12th, 2025 –VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced the release of the 2026.1 versions of its flagship software products: VI-CarRealTime, VI-DriveSim, VI-NVHSim and VI-WorldSim. The new 2026.1 software suite is now available for download in the reserved area of the VI-grade website, offering immediate access to a host of new capabilities and performance improvements across the full VI-grade ecosystem. This major release reinforces the company’s commitment to accelerating virtual prototype development and delivering realistic, immersive simulation experiences.
VI-CarRealTime VI-CarRealTime 2026.1 enables users to gain faster, more accurate insight into vehicle behavior from concept to validation. The new Static Lap Time solver improves simulation precision through advanced tire modeling, helping engineers optimize performance earlier in the design process. Enhanced model management using a flexible JSON-based override system makes it easier to adapt, reuse, and share models across teams and projects. Expanded powertrain and actuator capabilities allow engineers to replicate real-world behaviors such as turbo lag or variable speed limits, leading to more realistic virtual prototypes. The upgraded Investigation Mode simplifies analysis through automated reporting and discrete optimization, reducing manual effort and improving decision-making speed. Additionally, enhanced FMU export now supports live visualization and state saving, allowing smoother integration into broader development workflows.
VI-DriveSim VI-DriveSim 2026.1 streamlines simulator operation and integration, enabling users to move from setup to testing more efficiently. The new direct support for MdynamiX steering and STEP Lab damper rigs minimizes configuration time and ensures more reliable hardware-in-the-loop performance. Engineers can now create and manage SimWB projects directly from the DriveSim interface, eliminating extra steps and potential setup errors.
A new standalone API service allows remote control and automation of simulation tasks, supporting distributed engineering teams. Updated telemetry dashboards and enhanced data logging improve clarity and traceability, while full compatibility with modern Linux environments ensures stable performance in professional simulation centers. Motion cueing preferences and parameter variations are now fully traceable, giving users greater confidence in test reproducibility.
VI-NVHSim
With VI-NVHSim 2026.1, users experience a more intuitive and powerful workflow for sound and vibration analysis. New human perception–based weighting standards make it easier to evaluate comfort and compliance, translating complex data into meaningful insights. Extended offline filtering and speed-based event triggers simplify setup and tuning, saving time during complex NVH investigations.
The redesigned VI-SimSound interface unifies installation and enhances usability, allowing users to focus on creative sound design instead of configuration details. Realistic effects like wall proximity reflections and expanded sound design integrations (including Bose and QNX LiveAMP) help engineers deliver immersive, production-quality auditory experiences earlier in development.
VI-WorldSim VI-WorldSim 2026.1 enhances realism and creative flexibility in immersive driving environments. The new solid-state LiDAR and configurable radar models let users replicate advanced ADAS and autonomous systems more accurately, while high-fidelity lighting and animated occupants heighten realism for driver-in-the-loop testing.
Engineers can now build and validate custom environments directly within the ModKit, independent of third-party tools, accelerating scenario creation for testing and training. Expanded Python SDK examples and ROS2 bindings make integration with existing automation and data pipelines easier than ever, empowering teams to connect simulation seamlessly with real-world development workflows.
The 2026.1 software suite strengthens VI-grade’s commitment to a connected, human-centric simulation ecosystem. Together, these tools enable engineers to model, test, and refine every aspect of vehicle performance from handling and NVH to immersive driver experience faster, more accurately, and with greater collaboration across the entire development cycle.
The VI-grade 2026.1 software release, along with a comprehensive list of new features and enhancements, is now available for download. Registered users can access it by logging into the reserved area of the VI-grade website.
Turin, Italy, October 23rd, 2025 –VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced a new partnership with TUC.technology, an Italian innovator specializing in modular connection systems for mobility applications through globally patented hardware & software proprietary systems. The partnership integrates TUC’s TUC.micro technology into VI-grade’s driving simulator platforms, delivering new levels of flexibility and realism in the development and evaluation of in-vehicle Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI).
This partnership merges VI-grade’s advanced simulation technology with TUC.technology’s modular hardware innovation to create a more flexible development environment. The integration of the TUC.micro connection system allows components such as instrument clusters, central and passenger displays, and other cockpit elements to be mounted, powered, and reconfigured with ease. This approach brings a new dimension of physical modularity to virtual testing environments, supporting faster and more iterative HMI and cockpit development processes.
The project involves the design and implementation of compact, omnidirectional interfaces that deliver optimal ergonomics and simple signal and power management within VI-grade’s simulator structures. The collaboration underscores both companies’ shared commitment to advancing flexible, human-centered development environments that connect physical and digital testing domains.
“This partnership showcases how the integration of modular connection technology enhances the versatility of simulation platforms,” commented Alessandro Baldari, EMEA and Americas HiL Sales Manager at VI-grade. “By combining our real-time simulation tools with TUC’s innovative hardware, we empower our customers to evaluate new cockpit architectures and control systems with greater speed, flexibility and realism.”
“This partnership marks a major milestone for TUC.technology as we expand our modular connection platform into the domain of simulation and digital development,” said Ludovico Campana, Co-Founder and CEO of TUC.technology. “Together with VI-grade, we are creating an ecosystem where the boundaries between physical and digital vehicle development disappear, ushering in a new era of integrated mobility design.”
Udine, Italy, October 15th, 2025 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced that UK-based high-tech start-up KAN Engineering has adopted VI-grade’s COMPACT Full Spectrum Simulator (FSS) to enhance its virtual development capabilities.
With this investment, KAN Engineering strengthens its portfolio of high-end simulation tools used to support automotive customers in areas such as ride and handling development, suspension characterization, and NVH performance. The COMPACT FSS will serve as a key asset in enabling KAN Engineering to deliver immersive, Human-in-the-Loop simulations to its clients.
VI-grade’s COMPACT FSS features a compact motion platform with a system of linear actuators, allowing for realistic reproduction of pitch, roll, and heave motions. Its high-fidelity capabilities from 0.5 Hz to 20 kHz make it ideal for ride comfort and refinement studies, including Damper-in-the-Loop applications and evaluations of combined motion, vibration, and sound.
“We are proud to support KAN Engineering in their mission to provide cutting-edge simulation services to the automotive industry,” said Alessio Lombardi, Vice President Sales EMEA and North America at VI-grade. “Their adoption of the COMPACT FSS reflects a growing demand for tools that enable subjective driver feedback earlier in the development process.”
“The COMPACT FSS adds a powerful dimension to our simulation offering,” commented Dr. Amir Soltani, CEO of KAN Engineering. “It allows us to deliver highly realistic, human-centric evaluations that complement traditional simulation workflows helping our customers bring better vehicles to market, faster.”
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.
To further enrich the Smart Prototypes Summit 2026, attendees from the automotive sector will benefit from dedicated technical tracks featuring presentations from VI-grade and HBK customers, continuing a proven format: leading OEMs, suppliers, and research partners share case studies on how simulation, driving simulators, HiL, and testing solutions accelerate innovation with the help of smart prototypes.
“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
Darmstadt (DE), September 25th, 2025 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions and part of HBK’s Virtual Test Division, announced a new partnership with MoBeLIV, a specialist in electric drive simulation. The agreement, signed on September 9, 2025, appoints HBK and its affiliates, including VI-grade, as resellers of MoBeLIV software solutions, making them accessible to a global customer base.
Electrified powertrain development requires the integration of more complex testing parameters, such as flux and magnet temperature. Customers increasingly seek ways to correlate and synchronize results from simulation, Hardware-in-the-Loop (HiL), and test stands. By combining HBK’s advanced test solutions with MoBeLIV’s simulation capabilities, engineers will be able to validate and fine-tune their results more effectively and with greater speed.
“Customers want to understand and bridge the gap between simulation and measurement,” said Mitchell Marks, Director of Automotive Strategy and Business Development at HBK. “MoBeLIV’s expertise in test-informed modelling and real-time simulations enables us to offer advanced results in electric motor testing, complementing HBK’s portfolio with simulation tools that seamlessly incorporate test data.”
“This collaboration goes a step further by connecting MoBeLIV’s real-time electric motor models with VI-CarRealTime, our flagship solution for real-time vehicle modelling and simulation,” added Alessio Lombardi, Head of EMEA and NA Sales at VI-grade. “With this integration, OEMs and suppliers gain a powerful virtual testing environment, both offline and on the driving simulator, accelerating the development of electrified powertrains with higher fidelity and confidence.”
More information about MoBeLIV’s EPT solutions, distributed through HBK’s Electric Motor Testing and VI-grade’s real-time vehicle modelling platforms, can be found at https://www.mobeliv.com/.
Udine, Italy, August 20th, 2025 – VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, today announced that Czinger Vehicles has implemented VI-CarRealTime, VI-grade’s real-time vehicle simulation environment, to support the virtual development of its performance road vehicles.
Founded in 2019, Czinger Vehicles develops high-performance cars using proprietary digital manufacturing technologies. The company’s first model, the 21C, was designed and engineered with a data-driven approach, combining additive manufacturing and computational optimization. To support the next stages of its product development, Czinger has adopted VI-CarRealTime to simulate and validate vehicle behavior earlier in the design cycle, contributing to shorter development times and enhanced performance optimization. The solution enables Czinger’s engineering team to work with a scalable vehicle model for large-scale studies and control system development. Key areas of focus include the evaluation of effective mass distribution, aerodynamic characteristics, and active suspension strategies, all of which are tested in simulation to generate measurable performance outcomes for on-track validation.
“Our goal with the 21C was to deliver a hypercar like-no-other using the latest in digital manufacturing and AI enabled engineering” commented Ewan Baldry, Chief Engineer at Czinger Vehicles. “Having achieved that, we’re now taking the next step by incorporating VI-grade’s simulation tools to reduce reliance on physical prototypes, speed up validation, and improve how we assess key vehicle systems early in development.”
“We’re proud to support Czinger in their mission to transform the automotive industry,” said Alessio Lombardi, Vice President Sales EMEA and North America at VI-grade. “Their adoption of VI-CarRealTime underscores the importance of high-fidelity simulation in the development of next-generation vehicles.”
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
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.
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