What VDL Enabling Transport Solutions does

VDL Enabling Transport Solutions (VDL ETS) is a Netherlands-based engineering services and technology subsidiary of the VDL Groep industrial conglomerate, headquartered at the Automotive Campus in Helmond. The company delivers integrated software development, engineering, testing, protobuild, and maritime solutions to heavy-duty mobility and energy customers — including truck, bus, ship, aviation, excavator, and forklift OEMs. Its operational footprint spans approximately 30,000+ m² of production and testing area and includes one of Europe's largest Rolling Road test benches (800-ton installation, 7x22 meters), a comprehensive battery testing laboratory (cell/module/pack), and specialized strength, durability, component, vehicle, and calibration labs.

The company's product portfolio centers on MATIAS, a model-based embedded software development framework with 18 years of proven use powering tens of thousands of products, and the Cell Fixture, a configurable cylindrical battery cell testing device. VDL ETS also offers a suite of autonomous depot features (Automated Yard Manoeuvring, Automated Halt Maneuvering, Automated Parking, Automated Charging, Automated Washing, Remote Assistance, and Precise Navigation via multi-sensor fusion) developed through the DITM national project. Its revenue model combines professional engineering and testing services on a project/contract basis with software framework licensing, sold through enterprise B2B direct sales and participation in publicly funded R&D consortia such as the €30M CIMBATT circular battery chain initiative (April 2025–March 2029).

Name

VDL Enabling Transport Solutions

Legal name

VDL Enabling Transport Solutions bv

Website

https://vdlets.nl

Company type

Private

Founded year

2015

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

51–100 employees

Short description

VDL ETS is a Netherlands-based engineering services subsidiary of VDL Groep that provides software development, testing, protobuild, and autonomous depot solutions to heavy-duty mobility and battery system OEMs. It combines proprietary embedded software (MATIAS), a major battery and vehicle testing laboratory, and consortium-led R&D projects.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Engineering & Testing Services for Mobility

NAICS

Support Activities for Road Transportation (4884)

SIC

Services-Testing Laboratories (8734), Services-Computer Programming Services (7371)

akta.pro primary industry

Connected Vehicle & V2X Traffic Operations (RSUs, SPaT/MAP, CV Applications) (TLAJACAJ)

akta.pro secondary industry

In-Cab Alerts, HMI & Driver Assistance Apps (TLAEANAG)

Keywords

• Embedded software development
• Battery testing services
• Autonomous driving solutions
• Vehicle testing services
• Engineering services mobility

Headquarters

HQ city

Eindhoven

HQ country

Netherlands

HQ region

Europe

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Infrastructure, Technology or R&D, Operations, Supply Chain, Marketing or Sales

Revenue model

1. Engineering and Technology Services: VDL ETS generates revenue through providing engineering services, software development, testing, protobuild, and maritime solutions on a project and contract basis. Services are tailored to customer requirements in mobility and energy sectors, with engagement through direct B2B sales and project-based collaboration.
2. Product Licensing (MATIAS Framework): MATIAS is offered as a commercial embedded software framework that organizations can adopt and license for use in their product development. Revenue is derived from framework licensing, onboarding, training, and ongoing support services.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels1 record

Marketing channels5 records

Core offering

VDL Enabling Transport Solutions (VDL ETS) develops, builds, and tests innovative mobility and energy solutions for industrial OEMs. The company provides embedded software development (including the proprietary MATIAS model-based framework), battery testing across cell/module/pack levels, vehicle and component testing (with one of Europe's largest Rolling Road test benches), prototype building (protobuild), autonomous depot driving features (automated parking, charging, halt maneuvering, washing, remote assistance), and maritime engineering services.

Product overview

VDL Enabling Transport Solutions offers a comprehensive portfolio of products and services focused on sustainable mobility and energy solutions. The core product offerings include MATIAS (a model-based embedded software development framework) and the Cell Fixture (a battery testing fixture). The company provides extensive testing services across multiple labs: Battery Testing Lab (cell, module, and pack testing), Strength and Durability Testing Lab, Component Testing Lab (with shaker, climate, pressure, leak, and strain testing), Vehicles Testing Lab (including Rolling Road), and Calibration Lab. Engineering services span software development (including integration testing), general engineering, protobuild, and maritime solutions. Autonomous driving features include Automated Parking, Automated Charging, Precise Navigation, Automated Washing, Automated Halt Maneuvering, and Remote Assistance. Major projects include CIMBATT (circular battery chain development) and DITM (digital infrastructure for automated transport). The company operates as part of VDL Groep maintaining high quality standards with technical expertise in low and medium volume project management.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• MATIAS A ready-to-use framework for model-based embedded software development with predefined architectural layout, clean separation between hardware/device logic and product logic, built-in functionality for fault handling, mode switching, and state machines. Licensed to organizations developing embedded products.
• Cell Fixture Engineered cylindrical cell fixture for battery testing environments featuring quick installation, scalable design (16-60 mm diameter, 65-210 mm length), current range up to 100A, temperature range -20°C to +60°C, and separate power and sense line connections for accurate measurements.
• Battery Testing Lab Comprehensive battery testing facility performing non-destructive electrical and mechanical tests on various battery chemistries including Li-ion, LFP, NMC, NCA, solid-state, and lead-acid, with climate chambers and battery cyclers for cell (560 channels up to 4000A), module (up to 320 kW, -40°C to +70°C), and pack levels (up to 750V/1500V, 1000A, 640 kW).
• Vehicles Testing Lab Comprehensive vehicle validation services including design verification planning, vehicle data acquisition, commissioning, homologation support, and one of Europe's largest Rolling Road test benches (800-ton installation, 7x22 meters) for buses, trucks, and trailers up to 30 tons.
• Strength and Durability Testing Lab Facility applying mechanical stress through static, dynamic, and fatigue loads in uniaxial and multiaxial configurations. Tests automotive components (air springs, leaf springs, subframes, control arms, stabilizer bars) and non-automotive high-tech components with advanced hydraulic test systems and climate chambers.
• Component Testing Lab Flexible test facility for components including electric drivetrains, batteries, cooling systems, charging components, and automotive parts. Offers shaker testing, climate testing, chemical/corrosion testing, pressure/burst testing, helium leak testing, strain gauge testing, and 3D measurements.
• Calibration Lab Internal calibration services for accelerometers (shaker tests), load cells, thermocouples, handheld/bench multimeters, pressure instruments, and measurement amplifiers ensuring accurate readings across measurement chains.
• Automated Parking Autonomous vehicle feature enabling automated parking within depots. Vehicle follows predefined routes to assigned parking spots, navigating safely without GPS in indoor environments with approximately 60cm spacing. Vehicles move forward automatically when space becomes available.
• Automated Charging Autonomous charging system where vehicles receive charger assignments, navigate autonomously to the charger location, align precisely, and connect automatically (e.g., pantograph activation). System monitors charging process and disconnects when complete.
• Automated Halt Maneuvering (AHM) Advanced driver assistance feature that supports bus drivers in approaching bus stops accurately. System takes over steering, braking, and acceleration below 15 km/h, guiding bus within 5cm of platform for accessibility compliance. Driver remains safety driver and can intervene at any moment.
• Software Development Services Full software development services including function definition, safety and security development, controls and integration, and model-based software development following structured engineering practices for embedded systems in heavy-duty mobility applications.
• Engineering Services Engineering services for mobility and energy solutions development with technical expertise and experience in low and medium volume project management, combining technical capabilities with VDL Groep quality standards.
• Protobuild Prototype building services for developing and testing innovative mobility and energy solutions with high quality standards and technical expertise, supporting customers from concept to validation.
• Maritime Solutions Maritime solutions contributing to sustainable solutions that shape the future of mobility, including battery systems and engineering services for ships and maritime applications.

Quantifiable outcome

• MATIAS framework has been proven in tens of thousands of products on the market today over 18 years
• +3 more outcomes

Named customers5 records

Segments4 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

AI capability3 records

Feature10 records

Partnerships

15 partnerships are on record, tiered core and supporting.

• DAF TruckscoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 April 2025VDL Groep leads the CIMBATT project (CIrcular Manufacturing industry and BATTery chain for heavy-duty mobility), with DAF Trucks as a key industrial partner. The project runs April 2025 – March 2029 with €30M committed subsidy from the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate. DAF contributes to developing circular battery packs for heavy-duty transport applications.
• Damen Shipyards GroupcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 April 2025Partner in the CIMBATT project contributing to the development of circular battery modules and packs for maritime applications. The project aims to create a Dutch circular battery chain for heavy transport including ships.
• Hyster-Yale NetherlandscoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 April 2025Partner in CIMBATT project contributing to battery technology for industrial vehicles and material handling equipment. Collaborates on developing modular battery packs for forklift and other heavy industrial vehicle applications.
• Eleo Technologies (Yanmar Group)coreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 April 2025Partner in CIMBATT project providing expertise in electric drivetrains and battery integration for heavy-duty applications. Eleo specializes in electric propulsion systems for marine and off-highway vehicles.
• TNOcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 April 2025Research partner in CIMBATT project providing scientific and technical research expertise for battery technology development, testing methodologies, and circular economy approaches.
• NXP Semiconductors NetherlandscoreTechnology or Integration · 1 April 2025Partner in CIMBATT project contributing semiconductor expertise for battery management systems (BMS), power electronics, and scalable BMS architecture for the next-generation modular battery packs.
• Technical University EindhovensupportingStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 April 2025Academic partner in CIMBATT project contributing research expertise in battery technology, power electronics, and sustainable manufacturing processes.
• University of TwentesupportingStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 April 2025Academic partner in CIMBATT project providing research capabilities in battery systems, energy storage, and circular manufacturing technologies.
• TracxonsupportingStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 April 2025Industrial partner in the CIMBATT project contributing to the development of circular battery manufacturing and logistics chain solutions.
• Tulip TechsupportingStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 April 2025Partner in CIMBATT project contributing technology expertise for digital solutions in battery manufacturing and monitoring.
• Van MeersupportingStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 April 2025Partner in CIMBATT project contributing to circular battery chain development for heavy-duty mobility applications.
• PNO InnovationsupportingImplementation/ SI/ Consulting Partner · 1 April 2025Project coordination support partner in CIMBATT, providing project management and innovation consulting services to support the consortium's objectives.
• VDL GroepcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 1 April 2025VDL ETS is a subsidiary of VDL Groep. VDL Groep is the lead partner in the CIMBATT project. The parent company provides industrial ecosystem, quality standards, and cross-company collaboration opportunities for VDL ETS.
• Brainport DevelopmentcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerCollaborating with VDL ETS in the DITM (Digital Infrastructure for Future-Proof Mobility) national project, which implements digital infrastructure for automated transport in the Netherlands. Brainport Development coordinates regional economic development in the Brainport Eindhoven region.
• RAI Automotive Industry NLcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerCollaborating with VDL ETS in the DITM national project for automated transport. RAI Automotive Industry NL represents the Dutch automotive industry and facilitates collaboration between companies on automotive innovation.

Scale indicators5 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights5 records

Direct peers

• AVL List GmbH: AVL is Europe's largest independent automotive engineering services and powertrain testing company, providing simulation, testing infrastructure, and prototype development for OEMs. Directly comparable to VDL ETS as a full-service mobility engineering and testing partner serving heavy-duty OEMs.
• FEV Group: FEV is a globally leading engineering services provider in powertrain, vehicle, and battery development with large testing facilities (including rolling roads and battery labs). Comparable to VDL ETS as a Tier-1 engineering and testing services firm serving heavy-duty and automotive OEMs across Europe.
• HORIBA: HORIBA provides automotive test systems, emissions measurement, and battery/energy testing solutions globally, including rolling road and drivetrain test benches. Comparable to VDL ETS on the test infrastructure and battery validation services side, particularly for European heavy-duty OEM customers.
• dSPACE GmbH: dSPACE specializes in hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, embedded software development, and model-based development tools for the automotive industry — VDL ETS itself uses dSPACE Scalexio and MicroAutoBox. Directly comparable on model-based embedded software and integration testing services.
• Vector Informatik: Vector provides automotive embedded software tools, CAN/CANoe-based testing and integration platforms, and AUTOSAR solutions — VDL ETS uses Vector VT Box and CANoe in its integration testing services. Comparable on the model-based embedded software development and integration testing services stack for European OEMs.

Broad incumbents

• Siemens (Siemens DISW / Simcenter): Siemens provides model-based systems engineering, embedded software tools, and automotive testing/simulation platforms through its Simcenter and Xcelerator portfolios. Comparable to VDL ETS in the embedded software development and automotive testing tooling space, but as part of a much broader industrial software portfolio.

Emerging players

• Applied Intuition: Applied Intuition provides simulation and software platforms for autonomous vehicle development, including depot and yard automation use cases. Comparable to VDL ETS in autonomous driving software and sensor-fusion stack development for commercial vehicles, though typically working at software-only abstraction layer.
• 2getthere (a ZF company): 2getthere provides autonomous vehicle systems for people and goods movement, with significant experience in automated depot/yard applications at airports, industrial sites, and business parks. Directly comparable to VDL ETS's Automated Yard Manoeuvring and depot automation product lines.
• Kvaser AB: Kvaser provides CAN bus development tools and embedded networking solutions widely used in heavy-duty vehicle development. Comparable to VDL ETS in the embedded software and integration testing tooling layer serving commercial vehicle and industrial automation OEMs.

Regional players

• TNO (Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research): TNO is a Dutch applied research organization collaborating with VDL ETS on the CIMBATT project. Comparable in Dutch mobility, battery, and autonomous systems research capabilities, though as a non-profit research institute rather than a commercial engineering services provider.

Market position

Weaknesses4 records

Competitive moat5 records

Customer concentration

• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/vdlenablingtransportsolutions

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles1 record

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about VDL Enabling Transport Solutions