TECHNOLOGY CROSSES INDUSTRY BORDERS

Between the commercial- and military-vehicle markets, knowledge sharing and tech transfer benefits both in areas such as vehicle electrification and alternative fuels.

Collaboration has become a watchword for the many aspects of vehicle development projects over the past years as cost-strapped vehicle makers added complex electronic features and functions to vehicles. Military developers also are planning to use even more of these linkups as military budget cuts loom.

Military design teams have been increasing their use of commercial-off-the-shelf products and modules for years, often working closely with vehicle providers and their suppliers. These efforts are expected to increase as rising debt curtails investments by the U.S. Department of Defense. As the funding climate has changed throughout this year, military speakers have increasingly begun presentations with a mention of reduced resources.