Who Is the Most Digital Automotive Manufacturer?

The question of who the most digital automotive manufacturer is has become increasingly important in an automotive world rapidly shaped by electric and software-defined vehicles. Gartner’s analysis published a year ago clearly outlined the ranking in this field. However, over the past year, traditional automakers have not stood still, and the gap with Tesla has gradually begun to close.

Several notable examples stand out among manufacturers competing to catch up with Tesla in software-defined vehicle development. The collaboration between Volkswagen and Rivian involves teams of approximately 1,500 people. Testing is planned to be completed in 2026, with the first application expected to turn into a production model with the ID.Every1 in early 2027.

On the BMW side, the Neue Klasse iX3 draws attention. Production of this model began in October this year with a completely new electronic architecture. BMW positions the iX3 directly against the Tesla Model Y Juniper. Although it is more expensive, it offers advantages over the Juniper in areas such as range, charging speed, and design. However, it remains behind Tesla in software capabilities such as OTA updates, ecosystem integration, and FSD.

General Motors, through its collaboration with NVIDIA, is transitioning to a Tesla-like centralized computing architecture. This system will debut with the Escalade IQ and will then be adapted across all electric and internal combustion engine models.

BYD stands out with its ADAS system called “God’s Eye.” With this system, the company plans to introduce 21 new models. Thanks to a holistic integration of a central brain, cloud and in-vehicle AI systems, network infrastructure, and sensors, advanced Level 2+ autonomous driving will be offered as standard across all models, from entry-level vehicles to the most luxurious SUVs. Compared to Tesla’s paid FSD system, this solution is expected to be more advantageous, while the use of LiDAR aims to meet expectations for safer driving.

In conclusion, although Tesla still maintains a strong position in many aspects, competitors are gradually catching up. By around 2030, many brands are expected to reach this level of digital and software-defined vehicle capability. Tesla, which pioneered this field nearly a decade ahead of its competitors, currently does not offer a new strong promise, as its focus has shifted toward areas other than developing new vehicles.