In the automotive market, the demand for electrical and electronic innovations and variations has been growing for some years. Using modular design for components and systems makes it possible to meet this demand for innovations and increased variety.

The number of complex, distributed systems is constantly increasing. A wide variety of factors, such as convenience functions or legal requirements, affect market penetration. Car makers themselves decide how to position themselves on the market by defining the functional scope of their vehicles. The following two variables are important factors in this context: the quantity of functions and the time at which the functional scope is decided.

One key to mastering the current challenges is function-oriented development and the related processes.

Sensibly combining functional orientation and module strategy determines the usability of functions in several models. New processes and modified roles are needed to combine module strategy and functional orientation, which often serve different purposes.

Klaus Revermann is Head of Body Electronics and Components at Volkswagen’s Technical Development. His area of responsibility encompasses on-board computers, access systems, motorised convenience functions, aerials and
component integration. After earning a degree in electrical engineering from Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences in 1994, Revermann worked at Continental ISAD Systems GmbH as a development engineer, focusing on integrated
starter/generator systems.

In 1999 he joined Volkswagen AG as a development engineer, working in the area of batteries, generators and integration. Revermann then managed the sub-department Switches and Sensors until he went on to assume leadership of the department Whole Vehicle Electrical System and Infotainment Development at Skoda Auto in the Czech Republic in 2004.

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