VI-grade, a specialist in human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, together with HBK, have shared the preliminary line-up of speakers for the Smart Prototypes Summit 2026, which is taking place from 19-21 May, at the VI-grade SimCenter in Udine, Italy. The Summit brings together industry experts to explore how smart prototypes serve as a unifying approach to virtual and physical vehicle development.
VI-grade reports that it has seen strong interest in the event from the global automotive engineering community, and received more than 40 proposals for presentations at the Summit.
The curated list of speakers now includes speakers from companies including Automobili Lamborghini, Apollo Tyres, Applus+ IDIADA, Bridgestone in collaboration with Volkswagen, Bugatti Rimac, Cetim, Cosin Scientific Software, Ferrari Performance, Iveco, Mercedes-AMG in collaboration with MdynamiX, and Michelin SIMIX in collaboration with EDAG Group.
Further insights will come from , Multimatic, Nissan in collaboration with Horiba MIRA, Pirelli in collaboration with MegaRide, S&VL in collaboration with Mazda, Stellantis Europe in collaboration with STEP Lab, the University of Salento in collaboration with Nardò Technical Center – Porsche Engineering, Valeo, Volkswagen, and Volvo Cars. Additional speakers and sessions will be announced as the technical program continues to take shape.
The presentations will include insights into real-world applications of smart prototypes across key development domains, including vehicle dynamics, ride, NVH, ADAS, durability and reliability, and electrified powertrains.
The event will conclude on 22nd May with a series of interactive, discipline-specific user group sessions focused on sharing expertise and best practices across ride & handling, NVH, and durability & reliability.
Alongside the technical programme, attendees at the Summit will experience live SimCenter demonstrations that show how smart prototypes are built and operated in real-world applications. These hands-on sessions will combine simulation software, professional driving simulators, hardware-in-the-loop platforms, and physical test solutions into integrated workflows, demonstrating how virtual and physical development environments can operate as one.
A virtual concierge
A new feature for the 2026 event is the AI-powered Helpdesk, accessible via the event landing page. The AI Helpdesk provides participants with quick and intuitive access to essential event information, including logistics, agenda updates, registration procedures, and frequently asked questions.
Designed to support attendees before and during the summit, the interface helps participants navigate all aspects of the event and prepare for a productive time at the SimCenter.
The Smart Prototypes Summit 2026 is supported by Vehicle Dynamics International as a media partner.
Registration for the Smart Prototypes Summit 2026 is open.
