ASAM OpenX standards enable efficient collaboration in the development and validation of autonomous driving functions

Hoehenkirchen, GERMANY, May 27, 2025 – A common language for virtual test environments is a critical factor for the efficient development and Validation of automated driving functions. The ASAM OpenX Standards provide a coordinated portfolio of data formats, languages, and data models that enable standardized descriptions of virtual test environments and efficient exchange between development partners. They enable the modeling of highly detailed road surfaces, complex road logic, dynamic scenarios with traffic participants, physical material properties, and the definition of Operational Design Domains (ODDs).

Standardized data can be integrated into Simulation and Validation tools from various providers, thereby facilitating smooth collaboration between manufacturers, tool suppliers, and development partners. The ASAM OpenX Standards thus form the foundation for scalable, safe, and efficient Simulation-based development and Validation of driver assistance systems and automated driving functions.

For this contribution to fostering cross-industry collaboration and technological interoperability, the ASAM OpenX Standards were awarded the ADAS & Autonomous Vehicle Award 2025 in the category "Collaboration of the Year."

"The ASAM OpenX Standards are the result of collaboration among hundreds of industry experts under the umbrella of ASAM," said Dr. Ralf Nörenberg, Board Member of ASAM e.V., who accepted the award in Stuttgart.

"Through standardization, we are creating a common language for the development, testing, and Validation of driver assistance and automated driving systems," added Marius Dupuis, CEO of ASAM e.V. "This enables experts from different disciplines and organizations to work together on complex challenges. It not only improves quality but also significantly reduces integration effort and facilitates innovation across the entire development chain."

Originally developed for the automotive sector and now established as de facto standards in that field, the ASAM OpenX Standards are also being actively adopted in adjacent sectors such as rail. International experts are currently working to expand the ecosystem specifically to support off-road applications in agriculture, mining, construction, and other forms of mobility.

Many ASAM OpenX Standards are used not only in Simulation but across all development stages of intelligent vehicles, including cyber-physical, scenario-based, or ODD-based testing.

The award ceremony took place on May 21, 2025, as part of the ADAS & Autonomous Vehicle Technology Expo in Stuttgart. Dr. Ralf Nörenberg accepted the award on behalf of all ASAM members.

“This award belongs to everyone involved – the project groups, companies, users, and contributors. They not only apply the standards but also actively help to develop them,” emphasized Nörenberg. “Their commitment is a key driver in making autonomous mobility a reality.”

For more information on the ASAM OpenX Standards, please visit: https://www.asam.net/standards/