MotorTrend, QNX, and Vector Launch Software-Defined Vehicle Innovator Awards for Visionary Leaders

Announcing the Fourth Annual Software-Defined Vehicle Innovator Awards

MotorTrend, a premier automotive media brand, has teamed up with QNX, a subsidiary of BlackBerry Limited, and Vector, a trailblazer in automotive software solutions, to announce the fourth edition of the Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) Innovator Awards. This prestigious awards program celebrates individuals who are redefining the automotive landscape through innovative software contributions, with nominations open until October 15, 2025.

The SDV Innovator Awards aim to highlight the visionary leaders and experts at the forefront of the automotive industry's transformation. For over three years, this initiative has spotlighted pioneering professionals from notable automakers and tech firms like Nvidia, Ford, Rivian, and Tesla, recognizing their contributions in areas such as autonomous driving and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

Ed Loh, MotorTrend's Group Head of Editorial, emphasized the importance of software-driven innovations in the automotive sector. He expressed enthusiasm for Vector's participation as a first-time partner, indicating a shared commitment to advancing the future of automotive software. Carsten Hurasky, Senior Vice President of Marketing at QNX, reiterated this sentiment, underlining the critical role that collaborative efforts play in achieving advancements in vehicle technologies.

Awards Categories and Nominations

This year, the SDV Innovator Awards feature three categories:
1. Pioneer: Honoring individuals who have made outstanding contributions in research, development, and implementation of new automotive software.
2. Leader: Recognizing senior management professionals who are effecting significant changes in the automotive industry through the adoption and application of innovative software solutions.
3. Expert: Celebrating specialists in various SDV domains, including AI, autonomous technology, and digital cockpit systems.

Nominations are currently being accepted at MotorTrend.com/SDVSurvey until the application deadline of October 15, 2025. Submissions require a brief overview of the nominee's career, showcasing their notable achievements in the field of software-defined vehicles. Following a thorough evaluation, a shortlist of finalists will be announced in November 2025. Winners will be recognized at a private ceremony and gala event during CES 2026 set to take place in Las Vegas on January 6.

The Importance of Collaboration in the Automotive Sector

Dr. Matthias Traub, Managing Director at Vector, highlighted the significance of collaboration in fostering advancements in software-defined vehicles. His comments reflect the awards' purpose as a vital platform for acknowledging the exceptional technical contributions driving the automotive industry forward.

MotorTrend is dedicated to documenting the evolution of the automotive industry, having provided insights since 1949. Their work spans informative journalism, engaging visual content, and all-encompassing reviews of new vehicles, signifying their crucial role in shaping automotive knowledge among consumers and enthusiasts alike.

As the industry continues to embrace software-based solutions and technological innovations, the SDV Innovator Awards serve as a testament to the talent and creativity propelling the future of transportation. By recognizing excellence in automotive software development, this initiative not only honors individual achievements but also inspires future generations to advance vehicle technology on a global scale.

MotorTrend, QNX, and Vector’s collaboration reflects a bold step into the future, lighting the way for continued innovation in the automotive sector. Capturing the essence of cutting-edge automotive developments, this awards program signifies a landmark moment for the industry, uniting various stakeholders committed to redefining what vehicles can achieve in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.