The fully automated car does not yet exist, but researchers at the Fraunhofer IAO and the IAT at the University of Stuttgart are working hard to advance this vision. Their main tool: the Wizard-of-Oz-vehicle.

At first glance, it looks like a normal delivery van: medium-sized, dark blue, with a sliding door and a spacious loading area for transporting goods, parcels and tools. But a closer look reveals that this is no ordinary vehicle. With two steering wheels and two rear-view mirrors at the front, it looks more like a driving school car. There are gas and brake pedals on both sides. There is even a third, fully equipped driver's seat in the rear of the car, which the naive passenger is not aware of for the time being. 

However, neither the second nor the third seat is intended for driving schoolteachers. The car is a so-called Wizard-of-Oz-vehicle and is on the road to conduct research. “For us, it is the ideal ‘moving laboratory’ to safely test automated driving in real traffic,” says Lesley-Ann Mathis, research associate at the Fraunhofer IAO.

Click here for more information (in German) or here for more infomation about the research unit Mobility and Innovation Systems.

LightRide is an innovative solution for an improved driving experience! This project, which emerged from the interdisciplinary research of Fraunhofer IAO and Fraunhofer IBP, demonstrates how dynamic light in the vehicle can enhance the well-being and concentration of passengers. Through the integration of intelligent light panels and studies on various light patterns, it has been proven that light influences emotions and reduces stress. Test subjects reported feeling more relaxed after the ride. LightRide opens up new perspectives for a more pleasant future mobility. Learn more about the exciting connection between lighting technology, design and user research.

Watch the video here.

Quantum computing represents a significant leap forward in human information processing, as it solves complex problems more efficiently than classical computers. Educating the next generation and further training existing professionals in quantum applications are crucial. At Fraunhofer IAO in Stuttgart we offer a training program: participants will learn to assess the key technology of quantum computing and apply it effectively. The content covers how quantum computers work, the principles of programming, and the concept of “quantum advantage”. Practical experiences are provided in the Quantum Lab, where the differences from current system architectures are explored. Key outcomes include interactive training for developers, researchers, and students, offering in-depth knowledge of quantum algorithms in initial programming experience, as well as adressing management issues and market trends in quantum computing. Quantum Computing Training Program 2025. Click here for more information.

Decarbonizing the energy system is central to the fight against climate change and is fundamentally transforming society, the economy, and democracy.

Who decides in a household whether a heat pump, solar panels or new appliances are bought? Who keeps track of energy needs, costs and savings? Who feels confident dealing with technical information, subsidies or energy providers — and who is left out?

These are gender issues. And they matter for whether the energy transition is perceived as fair, accessible and worth supporting.

Yet gender inequalities often remain invisible in energy policy. They also intersect with other forms of disadvantage, linked to income, origin, disability, religion, sexuality or social background.

The Horizon Europe project “gEneSys” at Fraunhofer IAO investigates how a just and inclusive energy transition can be designed — one that works for real households, not only for idealised consumers.

Read more here.