Welcome to NEXT HORIZONS 2026
The new cross-industry technology event by Vector, dedicated to the intelligent software ecosystem. NEXT HORIZONS is designed for those shaping the future of Software-Defined Systems. It brings together peers to explore how organizations can move faster while staying in control – in an ecosystem shaped by AI, regulation, partner networks, and growing lifecycle responsibility. Two days. One goal: sharper answers for your next move.
Days
Keynotes
Tech Tracks
Speakers
Program
Four Tech Tracks shape the program – each addressing a dedicated key challenge. Explore the intelligent software ecosystem across three stages, four workshop rooms, 800 sqm of exhibition space, and open networking areas. Whether you drive decisions or deliver solutions – the program meets you where you are.
Day 1 - November 17th
Control Software-Defined Systems at Scale
How can you maintain control when systems, supply chains and organizations become more complex?
Make AI Deployable and Trustworthy
How can you make AI deployable while ensuring accountability, traceability and regulatory oversight?
Day 2 - November 18th
Accelerate Engineering Workflows Without Compromise
How can you streamline end-to-end engineering workflows without compromising safety, security, quality or compliance?
Scale Platforms Beyond Projects
How do you build scalable, safe and secure software platforms while keeping control over architecture, partners or lifecycle ownership?
Four Formats. One Goal: Your Progress
Two days. Four Tech Tracks. Four formats. You build your personal agenda for NEXT HORIZONS 2026. Choose the sessions and formats that move your work forward. Challenge your assumptions on scaling Software-Defined Systems. Pressure-test your approach to complexity, governance, and speed.
Keynotes
The strategic framework for what comes next. Perspectives from AI, futurology, and beyond – delivered by visionaries, OEM leaders, and industrial pioneers shaping the ecosystem.
Presentations
Guidance for real-world challenges. Experts share proven knowledge, use cases, and success stories that drive your projects forward.
Deep Dives
Small groups. Concrete challenges. Co-create solutions, work hands-on with tools, and exchange ideas with peers who share your technical reality.
Networking & Exhibition
Engage in conversations that go beyond quarterly reviews and familiar industry routines. Be part of active discussion and exchange on all strategic and technical levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
NEXT HORIZONS is a new cross-industry technology event dedicated to the intelligent software ecosystem.
NEXT HORIZONS is designed for different perspectives and levels of depth. Strategic keynotes and curated exchange formats speak to C-level leaders and technical decision-makers. Deep-dive workshops and exhibits are built for software architects, engineers, and developers. Choose the depth that matches your priorities.
The event takes place November 17-18, 2026 at the Vector campus in Stuttgart.
There are experts on topics like AI, representatives from various industries and experts from Vector and its ecosystem partners. Speakers will be announced soon. Sessions will be presented in either English or German. To ensure an inclusive experience for all attendees, simultaneous AI-based interpretation will be available throughout the event, allowing participants to follow every session in their preferred language.
The event is free of charge. Just register via the following link. But registration is personalized. Please ask your colleague to register himself/herself. In case you can't participate, please do not forget to cancel your participation. Access the registration portal here.
Yes. You may attend one or both event days according to your schedule. Just book accordingly.
Yes, the venue is accessible. There is a barrier-free toilet. Reach out to us directly, we are happy to help.
The address is: Holderäckerstraße 36, 70499 Stuttgart. There are plenty of parking spaces available, including charging stations. Parking is free of charge. The Weilimdorf S-Bahn station is within a five-minute walking distance. Stuttgart Airport is the nearest international airport and can be reached from the venue within approximately 30 minutes.
We can recommend the following hotels:
Holiday Inn Weilimdorf
Radisson Blu Hotel at Porsche Design Tower Stuttgart
the niu, Form Stuttgart Feuerbach
Abacco by Elaya
If you require a visa support letter, please contact the event team after registration.
Press
We welcome journalists and media professionals to experience the intelligent software ecosystem firsthand at NEXT HORIZONS. Enjoy guided tours, gain exclusive insights, and take advantage of interview opportunities with industry leaders and innovators.
Press Contact
Cordula Gielen
E-Mail: Cordula.Gielen@vector.com
Phone: +49 711 80670-2910