Anders Bell, CTO of Volvo, talks about his new versatile technology platform.
We had the opportunity to speak with Anders Bell, CTO of Volvo, about their new Superset platform and how it will drive the brand's future electric vehicles.
Volvo is at a crucial moment with the launch of the new EX90, its highly anticipated flagship electric SUV, designed to compete with other large premium SUVs such as the Rivian R1S. This vehicle not only stands out for its characteristic Scandinavian style but also incorporates modern features and Google’s Android Automotive software. Beyond being its first major venture into the electric SUV segment, the EX90 marks the beginning of the Superset platform, a technology system designed by Volvo that will be applied to future electric vehicles from the brand, including upcoming models like the luxury sedan ES90 and other more affordable vehicles like the EX60.
Volvo is facing fierce competition. While it is positioning itself well within the realm of software-defined vehicles, it also has to contend with new competitors like Rivian, which has received accolades for its advanced software and selection of modern features. During CES 2025, a meeting was held with Anders Bell, CTO of Volvo, who provided insights into the Superset platform and the company’s software strategy.
A fundamental aspect of software-defined vehicles (SDVs) is the capability for continuous software updates. According to Bell, Volvo is already performing over-the-air (OTA) updates to enhance the user experience for 2.5 million vehicles on the road this year. The EX90 is distinguished by its digital design from the ground up, featuring an architecture centered around a main computer that integrates vehicle operation functions, including advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Bell explained that although integrating various functions into a single environment can complicate safety standards, it also allows for greater efficiency in development and the creation of an open ecosystem within the vehicle. In this sense, the evolution of vehicles as computers on wheels gives them the potential for a more flexible and appealing design for consumers.
Moreover, Bell emphasized the importance of working with partners like Google, indicating that leveraging the expertise of these partners can lead to a better customer experience. The collaboration with Google focuses not only on Android Automotive but also on providing seamless integration with Apple CarPlay for users who prefer it.
The future development of the software system is based on a unified approach, where a single software platform will support all Volvo electric vehicles, thereby ensuring greater consistency and ease of implementation for new functions and features as they become available. Bell also addressed how to ensure that vehicles remain updated and relevant in a constantly evolving market, suggesting that continuous updates will allow vehicles to adapt to new technologies and consumer requirements without becoming static objects.
Finally, it was mentioned that some additional features, such as CarPlay and enhancements to the ADAS system, will be implemented in future updates. These advances ensure that Volvo not only positions itself at the forefront of automotive technology but also provides its customers with an increasingly advanced and personalized driving experience.
