Advanced Propulsion Centre to launch Software Maturity Levels framework for software-defined vehicle projects
The guidance adds Software Product Readiness and Software Factory Readiness assessments to sit alongside Automotive Technology Readiness Levels. It is aimed at APC funding applicants, automotive manufacturers, suppliers and government stakeholders.
The Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC) said on 3 November 2026 that it will launch a new Software Maturity Levels framework at the Advanced Engineering show on 5 November 2026. APC says the framework is intended to help organisations understand, assess and communicate software readiness in software-defined vehicle (SDV) innovation projects.
APC's case is that traditional Technology Readiness Levels do not fully assess software maturity. The framework introduces two complementary areas, Software Product Readiness and Software Factory Readiness, designed to work alongside the existing Automotive Technology Readiness Levels. APC says that together they give a more consistent way to assess and communicate the maturity of software products and of the processes used to develop them.
APC is positioning the framework as practical guidance for its funding applicants, automotive manufacturers, suppliers and government stakeholders. Angad Jessel, Automotive Trends Analyst at APC, said: "APC’s framework aims to provide accessible, forward-looking guidance rather than replace established automotive TRL assessments."
APC says the framework will be available on its website from 5 November 2026. On the same day Jessel and Alex Wood will present a session titled 'Why Software Readiness Levels Don't Tell the Whole Story' at the show's Automotive, Mobility & Electrification Forum, from 13:00 to 13:20. APC and Zenzic teams will be on stand H180 to discuss upcoming DRIVE35 funding opportunities.
Sources
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