The production and development of modern vehicle electrical systems presents the automotive industry with growing challenges: Innovation pressure, new technologies, and increasing functionality, combined with the pursuit of efficiency improvements and the demands of complex supply chains, necessitate the continuous renewal and optimization of both the data and power electrical systems. Coupled with shorter development times and the need for modern solutions in simulation and product validation, this creates the demand for an expanded and product-specific expertise profile – from the component level to the complete E/E architecture, from the perspective of OEMs, wiring harness manufacturers, and technology suppliers alike.

To provide future specialists with a solid foundation, the nationwide unique Master's program "Onboard Network Development" (E/E Development) was established at Landshut University of Applied Sciences in 2015 under the leadership of BMW. In close collaboration with renowned industry partners and in constant exchange with the sector, current topics such as onboard network architectures, electromobility, data communication, simulation, automation, and robotics are integrated into the curriculum. Cross-system expertise, as well as the understanding and management of risks associated with the use of new technologies and materials in mass production, are integral components, as are the diverse requirement profiles of the stakeholders involved along the value chain.

The lecture was given as part of the 9. Trend Outlook on July 07, 2026 The program was presented by Prof. Dr. Götz Roderer of Landshut University of Applied Sciences. He provided an overview of the degree program and its development over the past ten years, and highlighted the competencies that will be of particular importance for the wiring harness industry in the future.

Further information about the Master's program in On-Board Network Development can be found at: www.haw-landshut.de