KD advances optical connectivity implementation in software-defined vehicles at VECS 2026

2026-05-08 · KD

This year, KD took part in VECS 2026 (Vehicle Electronics & Connected Services), one of Europe’s leading events focusing on automotive electronics, connectivity and the transition to the Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV). In line with the industry’s growing focus on the practical implementation of these architectures, our participation centred on addressing the practical challenges of integration, validation and scalability of connectivity in the vehicle of the future.

Held in Gothenburg, the event brings together OEMs, technology suppliers and industry experts to discuss the challenges and advancements that are shaping the future of mobility. This year’s event has been particularly marked by the prominence of SDV and a clear shift in the industry’s focus towards the practical implementation of technologies. In this context, we have held very productive discussions with OEMs and testing equipment manufacturers, where it has become clear that the debate is no longer focused solely on bandwidth, but on system-level reliability, integration, validation and the scalability of solutions.

KD was represented at the event by our CEO, Carlos Pardo; our Business Development Managers Pablo Blázquez and Thomas Walsh; and our Field Application Engineers Luis Medina Valdés and Diego Alejandro Rossi, who were able to share our vision and gain first-hand insight into the sector’s current needs. Our 10GBASE AU optical camera demo, developed by Leopard Imaging using our KD7251 transceiver and the Corning Incorporated hybrid cable and connector system, served as a starting point for many of these discussions, generating interest in key aspects such as interfaces, compatibility and deployment in real-world systems.

In line with these discussions, there has been growing interest in connectivity solutions based on optical links, particularly with regard to their integration into next-generation architectures. In this context, KD’s offerings, which focus on robust and scalable links for demanding environments, meet the needs identified by various industry stakeholders.

Furthermore, several of the discussions held during VECS have highlighted the importance of having solutions that are not only technologically advanced, but also validated and supported by a robust ecosystem. Aspects such as standards, validation, documentation and collaboration between partners are emerging as key elements in reducing risks and moving towards effective industrial adoption.

About KD

KD is a Spanish semiconductor company leading the market for high-speed data transmission through optical fiber in challenging environments. For 15 years, the company has been reinventing the way optical communications are made to make them robust and affordable enough for the automotive, consumer and industrial markets.