VI-grade and HBK reveal new Program Highlights for 2026 Smart Prototypes Summit

Industry insights, partner ecosystem, and intelligent AI technologies coalesce to shape the event experience.

Global, February, 2026

VI-grade, the global provider of human-centric simulation-driven vehicle development solutions, together with HBK, has announced new program highlights for the upcoming Smart Prototypes Summit 2026. Industry insights, partner ecosystem, and intelligent AI technologies coalesce to shape the event experience.

It demonstrates how smart prototypes represent the next generation of development platform

This event brings together OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, technology providers, and research institutions. It demonstrates how smart prototypes represent the next generation of development platforms, unifying simulation, testing and data intelligence into a seamless workflow that drives faster, better and more sustainable innovation across the virtual and physical worlds.

The event will be hosted from May 19–21, 2026, at the VI-grade SimCenter in Udine, Italy, one of HBK’s technology hubs featuring the full range of vehicle simulation software, professional driving simulators, hardware-in-the-Loop platforms, and physical test solutions.

The Smart Prototypes Summit is the next step in HBK’s vision to unify physical and virtual testing within a single, integrated environment. This event brings together OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, technology providers, and research institutions. It demonstrates how smart prototypes represent the next generation of development platforms, unifying simulation, testing and data intelligence into a seamless workflow that drives faster, better and more sustainable innovation across the virtual and physical worlds.

Confirmed speakers to date include representatives from Apollo Tyres, Bridgestone EMEA, Bugatti Rimac, CETIM, Valeo, Volkswagen, Volvo Cars, and the University of Salento in collaboration with Porsche Nardò Technical Center. These contributors will address real-world applications of smart prototypes spanning vehicle dynamics, Ride, NVH, ADAS, Durability & Reliability and electrified powertrain development. Additional contributions from automotive OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and technology partners will be announced in the coming weeks.

Live Demonstrations and AI Helpdesk

Alongside the technical program, attendees will experience live SimCenter demonstrations illustrating how smart prototypes are built and operated in real-world practice. These hands-on sessions will combine simulation software, professional driving simulators, Hardware-in-the-Loop platforms, and physical test solutions into integrated workflows, demonstrating how virtual and physical development environments can operate as one.

To further enhance the attendee experience, the Smart Prototypes Summit 2026 introduces an AI-powered Helpdesk, accessible via the event landing page. The AI Helpdesk provides participants with quick and intuitive access to essential event information, including logistics, agenda updates, registration procedures, and frequently asked questions. Designed to support attendees before and during the summit, the AI-powered interface helps participants easily navigate all aspects of the event and prepare for a productive experience at the SimCenter.

2026 Smart Prototypes Summit: Industry Partners

VI-grade and HBK would like to thank the industry partners supporting the Smart Prototypes Summit 2026:

MAIN: cosin scientific software, HORIBA MIRA
PLATINUM: Applus+ IDIADA, EDAG Group, Meccanica 42, MegaRide, Rebel Dynamics, SAGInoMIYA
GOLD: ICT, MdynamiX, Michelin Simix, Multimatic, STEP Lab
SILVER: 3D Mapping Solutions, Barco, openDAQ™, project: syntropy, VTT – Virtual Tire Technologies (a spin-off of Fraunhofer ITWM)
BRONZE: BE CAE & Test, JEDAi, Moog

The Smart Prototypes Summit 2026 is supported by leading media partners, including ATZ, Automobilindustrie, Automotive Testing Technology International, engineering.com, SAE Media Group, and Vehicle Dynamics International.

Registration for the Smart Prototypes Summit 2026 is open with a 25% Early Bird Discount available for registrations made before February 28th, 2026. Additional information about the technical program and event experience will be published as it becomes available.

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Hottinger Brüel & Kjær (HBK)’s testing and measurement solutions give engineers around the world the accurate, up-to-date data they need to bring higher-quality products to market faster.

HBK empower the innovators by providing exceptional sensing and insights to help create solutions for a cleaner, healthier and more productive world.

For more information, please visit www.hbkworld.com

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