Car Software, Safety Ratings and Recalls — 2026-10-23

Top developments

Subaru Bypasses Toyota’s Arene for AMD-Based SDV Platform

Subaru announced on October 19 that it plans to launch software-defined vehicles (SDVs) in the late 2020s, skipping Toyota’s "Arene" OS in favor of its own architecture built on AMD ECUs. The company aims to reduce vehicle development times by approximately 40% and enable phone-like over-the-air updates that improve functionality over time. This move signals a significant divergence in software strategy within the Toyota group, as Subaru seeks greater autonomy in its digital architecture.

VW Recalls 72,700 EVs Over Battery Fire Risk; Charging Limited to 80%

Volkswagen and its subsidiary Cupra are recalling approximately 72,700 electric vehicles globally due to a battery defect that poses a fire risk. As a temporary safety measure, affected vehicles are restricted to charging up to 80% capacity, which reduces range by about 20%. German media reports indicate that while a permanent fix is being developed, owners are currently bearing the inconvenience of reduced range without immediate compensation, highlighting the challenges of managing hardware defects in the EV era.

1 sources

auto-motor-und-sport.de

auto-motor-und-sport.de

China Regulator: OTA Fixes Do Not Bypass Recall Procedures

At the World Intelligent Connected Vehicles Conference on October 22, Li Changqing from China’s State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) stated that the ability to fix defects via OTA does not exempt manufacturers from formal recall procedures. Data revealed that from January to September 2026, there were 617 recalls involving 20.39 million smart connected vehicles. This clarification aims to ensure transparency and regulatory oversight in an era where software updates are increasingly used to manage safety defects.

Ford Recalls 102,159 F-Series Trucks for Speedometer Issues

Ford is recalling 102,159 F-Series trucks in the U.S. because the speedometer and tachometer may stick or provide inaccurate readings. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) noted that the defect could lead to drivers misjudging their speed, posing a safety risk. This recall underscores the continued prevalence of hardware-related instrument cluster issues even as the industry shifts toward software-defined dashboards.

Honda Recalls 15,191 Vehicles in Japan for Battery Control Defect

Honda filed a recall with Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism on October 22 for 15,191 units across eight models, including the Stepwgn, due to improperly installed components in the electronic control unit. The defect affects vehicles manufactured between December 2024 and July 2025 and poses a risk of battery system failure. Similar issues have been identified in Chinese-made Odyssey and Thai-made Accord models, indicating a broader supply chain quality control concern.

Local view

Germany: German automotive press highlights the growing frequency of EV recalls, with Auto Motor und Sport noting that battery issues are becoming a recurring theme for VW and other manufacturers. Legal experts are advising owners to check if they can return vehicles under warranty laws given the significant reduction in charging capacity.

China: 21st Century Business Herald reports on the "governance upgrade" for intelligent connected vehicles, citing UN ECE officials who noted that regulations are struggling to keep pace with rapid technology iteration. The focus is on establishing clearer standards for L2-level driving assistance to prevent consumer confusion about "autonomous" capabilities.

Context & numbers

• Toyota’s SDV Goal: Toyota plans to make all ~50 of its vehicle models software-defined by 2030.
• China Recall Volume: 20.39 million smart connected vehicles recalled in China Jan-Sept 2026.
• Subaru Efficiency Target: Aims to cut development time by 40% with new SDV architecture.
• VW Recall Size: ~72,700 EVs recalled globally.

On the radar

• NHTSA NCAP Updates: The NHTSA is seeking public comment on removing the Dynamic Rollover Resistance Test ("Fishhook") from its New Car Assessment Program, a move that could significantly alter how rollover risk is communicated to consumers.
• Software Support Lifespan: CarScoops raises concerns about cars outliving their software support, a growing issue as vehicles become more dependent on ongoing OTA updates for critical functions.
• BYD OTA Patent: BYD has filed a patent for a new OTA upgrade control method aimed at improving update efficiency, potentially setting a new standard for Chinese EV makers.