AB Dynamics (ABDP), a supplier of automotive test systems, has acquired simulation software specialist rFpro, strengthening its position in the simulation-based verification market for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous vehicles.
rFpro is a specialist in driving simulation for ADAS, autonomous systems and vehicle dynamics. Its software is used as standard on the three main driving simulation platforms on the market and has benefitted from year-on-year growth since its incarnation in 2007.
“To keep up with demand from the ADAS and autonomous vehicle markets we needed to find a global partner,” said Chris Hoyle, rFpro technical director.
“AB Dynamics perfectly overlaps into our core markets: ADAS, autonomous, vehicle dynamics and motorsport. The real power behind rFpro is our team of passionate and talented engineers, so it was important to find a partner that would be a great fit culturally, too.”
rFpro’s simulation tools complement AB Dynamics’ existing portfolio of test equipment, such as driving robots and test rigs. This enables customers to test and develop vehicles in a virtual environment before real world validation from a single supplier. This level of synergy is now unrivalled in the market.
Dr James Routh, CEO at AB Dynamics, said, “The acquisition fits squarely in our stated strategy to develop the group through organic and acquisitive growth. Importantly, it provides the group with direct access to the potentially high growth simulation-based verification market for ADAS and autonomous vehicles, which complements our existing track testing business.
“It also enables the group to more rapidly develop and grow our existing aVDS simulator product line. We’re really excited about the way the two companies’ products, from both the real and the virtual sides of the testing market, can combine and create a seamless test platform from data center through to proving ground.”
rFpro will remain an independent company, with its own brand and will continue to supply other driving simulator and test equipment manufacturers in the automotive industry. Hoyle, rFpro’s founder, is staying with the company and will focus on the technical and creative side of the business.
