Panasonic Automotive Systems Enhances Leadership in Global SDV Standardization as SOAFEE Governing Body Member

Panasonic Automotive Systems Joins SOAFEE Governing Body

Panasonic Automotive Systems Co., Ltd. (PAS), headquartered in Yokohama, Japan, has taken a significant step in the global automotive arena by joining the Governing Body of SOAFEE (Scalable Open Architecture for Embedded Edge) as of June 25, 2025. This appointment emphasizes PAS's commitment to advancing software-defined vehicle (SDV) technologies, as the organization collectively drives the evolution of automotive software at an unprecedented scale.

Incorporated into SOAFEE since its induction as a Technical Steering Committee member in 2022, Panasonic has made remarkable contributions by spearheading standardization efforts focused on Open-Source Software (OSS) particularly across the Asia-Pacific region. The company has played a pivotal role in promoting solutions like VirtIO-based Unified HMI and Virtual SkipGen which encapsulate SOAFEE's goal of creating software that operates independently of hardware. These innovations are not merely theoretical; they manifest in real-world applications that further encourage the transition toward next-generation automotive systems, effectively modernizing the cockpit experience.

The momentum of PAS’s involvement is noteworthy as its contributions have been recognized and adopted within SOAFEE's blueprint solutions, paving the way for enhanced collaboration among automotive manufacturers. This measurable impact showcases how the company effectively integrates OSS into the next chapters of automotive development.

Adding to this existing legacy, Panasonic took on the leadership of the newly conceived SOAFEE APAC Regional Hub in November 2024, which commenced operations in May 2025. The goal of this regional hub is to galvanize SOAFEE activities, catering to a significant demographic, as a substantial number of SOAFEE members hail from the Asia-Pacific area. As the ninth governing body member out of over 150 companies within the consortium, PAS's involvement is a testament to its multidimensional approach to driving SDV transformation.

Masashige Mizuyama, Executive Vice President and CTO of Panasonic Automotive Systems, expressed enthusiasm regarding this new role, emphasizing the importance of developing a seamless cloud-native ecosystem to facilitate fast and efficient delivery of automotive innovations. He envisions that virtualization of devices will be critical to achieving this vision, stating that Panasonic is eager to lead initiatives within SOAFEE and contribute meaningfully to the automotive industry’s evolution.

The future of the automotive industry looks bright with contributions from PAS, particularly in fostering collaboration with other standardization bodies while supporting SOAFEE's global initiatives. Through their innovative approach, Panasonic Automotive Systems plans to confront various opportunities and challenges poised by the fast-evolving landscape of SDV and cloud-native development.

Established on April 1, 2022, Panasonic Automotive Systems is a part of Panasonic Group’s strategy to focus on automotive innovations. The company has now transitioned to hold a management structure with 80% ownership by investment funds managed by an affiliate of Apollo Global Management and 20% by Panasonic Holdings Corporation. As a Tier 1 supplier, PAS delivers unique technology solutions such as infotainment systems to automakers on both domestic and international fronts. The overarching goal remains to enhance driving experiences, focusing on safety, comfort, and security within vehicles.

In investing its resources in standardization and collaborative initiatives such as those fostered by SOAFEE, Panasonic Automotive Systems is not just participating in a conversation but actively shaping the future direction of automotive technology.