Geely’s ECRI: Pioneering Software-Defined Vehicles with Global Collaboration

Geely’s ECRI Pioneers Global Collaboration for Software-Defined Vehicles

In a rapidly evolving automotive landscape, Geely’s External Collaboration Research Institute (ECRI) is positioning itself as a leader by integrating artificial intelligence, functional safety, and regional engineering expertise. This strategic approach aims to assist OEMs in developing software-defined vehicles through a combination of global collaboration and localized manufacturing support.

In an interview with AMS, ECRI president Ms Wang Xiaojun elaborated on the institute’s strategic direction and the services it offers. She emphasized that the automotive industry is undergoing significant changes, driven by AI and increasing expectations around safety, regulations, and trustworthiness.

Ms Wang’s presentation at the MOVE 2026 event highlighted ECRI’s core principles: prioritizing extreme safety, utilizing full-domain AI to integrate systems, and enabling globalization through localized collaboration. These principles contribute to an engineering architecture known as “EA 4.0,” which aims to unify safety, AI computing, and global collaboration into a cohesive system.

ECRI’s strategy goes beyond component development, seeking to provide integrated technical platforms, safety frameworks, and localized delivery capabilities. Geely’s existing collaborations with brands like Volvo and Renault illustrate its commitment to enhancing traditional automotive partnerships.

End‑to‑End Solutions and Local Implementation

Ms Wang made it clear that ECRI’s scope extends well beyond consultancy. The institute offers comprehensive services that encompass the entire product lifecycle, from design and engineering to manufacturing and after-sales support. ECRI also provides turnkey solutions, delivering everything from electronics to production processes.

A key aspect of ECRI’s model is its focus on local execution, with engineering centers in Europe and local teams that work closely with partners. This “local for local” approach helps meet regional customer and regulatory needs while leveraging Geely’s scale and data from its operations in China.

Technical Strategy: Safety First

At the core of ECRI’s technical strategy is a commitment to safety, which facilitates openness. The institute focuses on certifications in functional safety, AI safety, and cybersecurity, building trust and ensuring that an open ecosystem can thrive.

Complementing this is the “Full Domain AI” concept, which shifts from isolated intelligence to vehicle-wide collaborative intelligence. This approach aims to unify perception, planning, and actuation into a centralized system, addressing fragmented architectures and ensuring consistent safety and functional behavior.

Commercial Strategy: Emphasizing Collaboration

ECRI’s market approach is geared towards collaboration rather than competition. Ms Wang stressed that the institute collaborates with various customers, from established manufacturers to new entrants, building joint teams to ensure localized program execution. The long-term goal is to become a leading technical solution partner by fostering sustainable, intelligent mobility ecosystems.

Industry Implications

Ms Wang’s insights suggest a shift in industry roles, with OEMs taking on more responsibilities traditionally held by tier-one suppliers. This restructuring creates opportunities for companies that can adapt to the demands of the AI era, orchestrate partnerships, and prioritize safety.

An Architecture for Trust

ECRI’s approach is rooted in creating a platform of engineered assurance and collaborative delivery, aiming for openness through a foundation of safety and governance. Ms Wang emphasized the importance of making complex systems safe, reliable, and sustainable, positioning ECRI as a leader in the future of software-defined vehicles.