Rethinking Testing for Software-Defined Vehicles: A Path to Continuous Integration 

The automotive industry is undergoing a software testing shift with the rise of Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs). Unlike traditional vehicles where software remains static throughout the car’s lifecycle, SDVs require dynamic software updates and a development process that supports continuous enhancement.

To achieve this, the focus must shift from outdated Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing to a more agile Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) approach, enabling testing earlier in the development process. 

Why SIL Matters for SDVs 

HIL testing on traditional ECU infrastructures has long been the norm, but it’s ill-suited for SDVs, where user-relevant upgrades and software updates are key. SIL testing allows engineers to simulate, test, and validate software independently of hardware, paving the way for: 

 

    • Faster detection of errors
    • Increased speed to market
    • Substantial cost savings 

This approach mirrors best practices from industries like banking, where integrating testing into the software development process has been standard for years. By identifying bugs early, the cost and effort to resolve them are drastically reduced. 

Integrating Testing into the Development Lifecycle 

To fully embrace the potential of SIL, testing must be a continuous, integrated part of the development process. Automation plays a pivotal role here, ensuring that every build of software is rigorously tested as it’s developed. However, effective testing requires a balance: 

 

    • Conducting on-premise testing for hardware and software integration early
    • Transitioning to cloud-based testing for scalable, virtualised regression tests once a stable baseline is established. 

This hybrid approach allows for controlled testing environments while paving the way for advanced automation and simulation capabilities in the cloud. 

Why T-Plan is Your Trusted Partner for SDV Testing 

T-Plan is purpose-built for the unique demands of SDV development, offering a robust, flexible testing solution that integrates seamlessly into continuous integration pipelines. Here’s why T-Plan stands out: 

 

    • Universal Automation: T-Plan automates UI and UX testing across platforms and environments, ensuring full coverage from SIL to HIL testing scenarios.
    • Early and Continuous Testing: By enabling testing at the earliest stages of development, T-Plan helps teams catch and fix issues early, minimising costly late-stage fixes.
    • Scalable and Flexible: T-Plan supports both on-premise controlled testing environments and cloud-based regression testing, adapting to the needs of any project.
    • Integration with CI/CD Tools: Fully compatible with tools like Jenkins and GIT, T-Plan enhances your continuous integration workflows for smoother, faster deployments. 

With T-Plan, teams can automate testing 24/7, delivering accurate, consistent results that accelerate time to market while improving software quality. 

Continuous Integration: A Game-Changer for Automotive Development 

The automotive industry is moving away from traditional linear testing models, such as the V-model, where testing occurs in distinct phases. Instead, a more fluid, iterative process is emerging: 

 

    • Build, test, and deploy in parallel.
    • Use tools like T-Plan to automate UI testing and orchestrate other tools in the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC).
    • Ensure continuous feedback through integrated systems like Jenkins and GIT. 

Automation in continuous integration doesn’t just save time—it ensures 24/7 testing, providing immediate feedback on builds and accelerating time to market. 

The Role of T-Plan in SIL Frameworks 

T-Plan stands out as a central solution for continuous integration testing. 

 

    • Automates UI and UX testing at any stage of development.
    • Drives other toolsets in the SDLC to automate complex testing scenarios.
    • Runs tests continuously, both during and outside office hours, maximising efficiency. 

By automating these processes, T-Plan ensures higher accuracy and consistency in software builds, enabling engineers to deliver reliable, high-quality software faster. 

A New Era for SDV Testing 

The transition to SDVs demands a reimagined approach to software testing—one that integrates seamlessly with development processes, leverages automation, and supports continuous improvement. 

With tools like T-Plan, the automotive industry can embrace this transformation, ensuring robust, scalable, and efficient testing for a new generation of vehicles. 

Ready to optimise your testing process? Learn more about T-Plan and how it can revolutionise your approach to software development and testing. 

In-car infotainment system with touch screen and voice control.

Recent Posts

CAD GUI automation design computer with design on the screen

When Automation Meets Artistry: How Visual Test Automation Enables Creativity and Precision 

Precision and creativity are often viewed as opposites, yet the most advanced industries today depend on both. Whether in engineering, architecture, gaming, healthcare, or defence, success increasingly relies on the balance between technical accuracy and visual excellence. The software that supports these image-heavy and design-led environments is complex and highly interactive, demanding a new kind

Read More »
T-Plan visual UI automation interface showing cross-platform testing in progress

The Challenge of True Visual Automation: Why Other Tools Struggle and T-Plan Excels 

In modern software testing, especially for QA professionals working in regulated sectors or high-precision environments, automation tools must go beyond basic object recognition. For QA testers responsible for validating complex systems – such as CAD, simulation, media, or engineering platforms – many frameworks run into technical limits as graphical accuracy rises and user demands increase. 

Read More »
Comparison of top companies offering image-based and CAD test automation tools in 2025 including T-Plan, Ranorex, Eggplant, SikuliX and Qualitest

Top 5 Companies Leading CAD and Image-Based Test Automation in 2025

This guide explores the leading image-based test automation platforms, including T-Plan’s business-ready solution and others such as Ranorex, to help QA teams select the most suitable option. In today’s technology landscape, quality assurance professionals face growing complexity when validating visually rich software and automating high-volume workflows. Traditional testing approaches often struggle to keep pace with

Read More »

Book your FREE demo

You’re just one step away from saving time & money – get in touch today.

  • No code access required
  • Visual UI testing tool
  • iOS and Mac compatible
  • All platforms supported
  • Mimics real time user experience
  • Record and playback function
  • Award winning support