New artificial intelligence-based systems are reshaping how modern vehicles operate. German supplier ZF has introduced a solution capable of analyzing road conditions in real time and adjusting vehicle behavior before encountering bumps or potholes, according to Autocar, cited by Wall-Street.ro.
The technology is part of the broader shift toward software-defined vehicles (SDVs), where software plays a central role in enhancing performance, safety, and comfort.
Smart chassis and AI-driven driving
ZF’s system, part of its Chassis 2.0 platform, includes the AI Road Sense feature, unveiled at CES 2026. It evaluates the road surface ahead and adjusts suspension and chassis settings in real time.
Unlike earlier systems, this solution can anticipate road conditions and continuously reconfigure vehicle dynamics while driving.
Meanwhile, manufacturers like BMW are integrating similar concepts. The new BMW iX3 is described as the brand’s first “native SDV.”
How the system works
ZF’s Cubix software processes data collected from vehicle sensors to adjust chassis behavior and torque distribution.
The system also includes Driver Behaviour Recognition, which adapts settings based on driving style.
Three configurations are available:
– Standard, using onboard data
– Advanced, adding camera-based detection
– Premium, using LIDAR to create a 3D road profile up to 25 meters ahead
Industry alternatives
Honda has developed a system focused on collecting road condition data and reporting it to authorities.
At the same time, Nexteer Automotive, together with Tactile Mobility, created award-winning software that classifies road conditions in real time.
Toward fully autonomous vehicles
The development of SDVs aligns with a broader vision, supported by figures such as Elon Musk, where vehicles will communicate with each other and infrastructure, enabling fully autonomous driving.
While that stage is still ahead, current systems mark a significant step toward safer and more comfortable driving.
Photo: freepik.com
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