A framework for distributed collaborative automotive testing

In this paper we explore the opportunities of improving the testing and verification phases of product development in the automotive industry, through a combination of broadband telematic services and tools and methods for distributed collaborative engineering. The development of a prototype system for remote vehicle testing is described, and experiences from experimental usage of the system at an automotive winter testing facility are reported. The prototype system supports real time communication of audio, video and measurement data from a vehicle at a test track, to a remote location such as an automotive company's development site. Initial results from using the system are promising, indicating a clear potential of improving the testing and verification phases of product development within the automotive sector, which will be essential in the future in order to meet demands on shortened development cycles and increased testing needs.