Partnership to leverage NI’s software-defined platform with ETAS global test and validation solutions

AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--National Instruments (Nasdaq: NATI) and ETAS GmbH have signed definitive agreements to jointly design, build, and service pre-integrated Hardware-in-the-Loop (HiL) systems. By pooling their strengths both companies strive for improving test and validation of software in automotive electronics, including electronic control units (ECUs) and sensors, to meet current and future customer requirements.

The agreements will establish a deeper partnership between two innovators with decades of experience in the automotive industry. By combining the NI software-defined platform and comprehensive I/O capabilities with ETAS expertise in developing and integrating HiL solutions, the partnership will deliver new test offerings to meet customer needs in the rapidly evolving automotive sector driven by electrification and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

Each company will own 50 percent of the joint venture, which will be headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany. The completion of the transaction is subject to customary conditions including regulatory and antitrust clearances and is expected to close in June 2019.

“ETAS has an exceptional team with experience in development and integration of HiL systems for the automotive industry,” said Eric Starkloff, NI President and Chief Operating Officer (COO). “We believe their quality of service and global deployment presence combined with our innovative platform will enable this partnership to meet the quality and time to market demands of our customers and partners.”

“By establishing this joint venture, ETAS expects to extend the application of HiL systems to new areas such as automated driving,” said Friedhelm Pickhard, the chairman of the board of management of ETAS GmbH. “NI has a leading platform for automated test and consistent focus on innovation. Building on their platform will enable the joint venture to deliver new HiL solutions and progress with regard to the early validation of automotive electronics software.”

The development of modern vehicles is continuing to become more complex through increased levels of automation via driver assistance systems. As a result, automotive suppliers and automakers demand increased efficiency in software development. The strength of the NI and ETAS teams, domain expertise, and global footprint create a unique opportunity to broaden the reach to customers and help them solve the development challenges in the automotive industry. The systems offered by the joint venture will provide a powerful solution, helping facilitate shorter design cycles, reduced test time and faster time to market.

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