Unified Quality and Software Standards: Volkswagen Group’s Supplier Requirements in 2025

1. Summary

• As of May 20, 2025, the Volkswagen Group has firmly established an integrated framework for software and quality standards that is critical for suppliers. This framework draws upon key documents such as the Group Basic Software Requirements specification (LAH.893.909), recent revisions of which underscore the Group's commitment to consistent quality in software and vehicle-related systems. With its latest update on May 2, 2024, LAH.893.909 sets forth comprehensive software performance expectations that aim to standardize development processes while promoting rigorous testing and verification protocols. This standard not only establishes clear metrics for project management and risk assessment but also emphasizes continuous improvement as an essential component of software quality assurance.

• Furthermore, a central focus of LAH.893.909 is the necessity for suppliers to meet stringent software demands within vehicle-based systems. This encompasses adherence to existing vehicle architectures and compliance with regulatory and cybersecurity standards, especially given the rising complexity of modern automotive technologies. Suppliers are accountable for demonstrating reliability and safety through extensive testing processes, including functional and integration testing aimed at ensuring compatibility with Volkswagen's exacting quality criteria. In conjunction with these requirements, the Volkswagen AG Quality Framework Agreement for Procurement, updated on April 15, 2025, delineates the responsibilities of module suppliers in meeting the Group's strict quality expectations. The agreement foregrounds the importance of a systematic quality management process that covers all stages of component delivery, thereby reinforcing supplier accountability.

• Finally, the application of customer-specific requirements under IATF 16949:2016 enhances the quality framework further by clarifying compliance necessities tailored to the automotive sector. These specific requirements from Volkswagen articulate a comprehensive quality management approach, promoting continuous improvement and defect prevention strategies within the supply chain. Through the synthesis of these standards and best practices, suppliers and the Volkswagen Group can engage in a structured collaboration that cultivates a culture of quality while remaining responsive to ongoing market and technological changes.

2. Group Basic Software Requirements Specification

• 2-1. Scope and objectives of LAH.893.909

• The Group Basic Software Requirements specification, referenced as LAH.893.909, was developed to ensure that the Volkswagen Group maintains high-quality standards across its software and vehicle-related systems. Released in 2002 and most recently revised on May 2, 2024, this document outlines the various expectations and objectives associated with software development. The scope primarily encompasses the requirements necessary for project-independent software performance, setting the stage for consistent quality and compatibility across multi-project environments.

• LAH.893.909 aims to standardize the software development process while also emphasizing the need for rigorous testing and verification protocols. It establishes baseline metrics for project management, documentation, and risk management, reinforcing a systematic approach to quality assurance and continuous improvement in software outputs.

• 2-2. Key software demands for vehicle-based systems

• An essential aspect of LAH.893.909 is its detailed stipulation of the key software demands that vehicle-based systems must meet. This includes a comprehensive framework that governs the development lifecycle, from initial requirements gathering through to deployment and maintenance. Software must be designed to ensure compatibility with existing vehicle architectures and compliance with both regulatory and security standards.

• Moreover, specific demands include the implementation of robust cybersecurity measures, given the increasing interconnectivity of modern automotive systems. Automotive suppliers are expected to integrate practices such as risk assessments and threat modeling throughout the development process, ensuring that vulnerabilities are identified and mitigated swiftly.

• Additionally, software modules must exhibit high levels of reliability, safety, and performance. Suppliers are required to demonstrate adherence to the outlined performance metrics during all phases, including functional testing and integration testing to verify that delivered outputs meet Volkswagen's stringent quality criteria.

• 2-3. Development process requirements

• The development process as prescribed by LAH.893.909 is meticulously structured to ensure that all software components undergo rigorous evaluation throughout their lifespan. The specification details various stages that must be documented, including system architecture design, coding standards, and testing methodologies, all of which are essential for ensuring a high standard of quality.

• Vendors are expected to employ formal verification methods early in their development processes, incorporating practices such as peer reviews and automated testing frameworks to identify defects in real-time. The requirements highlight a focus on continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) practices, which facilitate efficient development cycles and adaptability to evolving customer requirements.

• Quality assurance activities are not limited to the development phase; ongoing evaluations during system integration and post-deployment are mandated. These processes ensure that the software continues to perform optimally and meets evolving standards in compliance with both internal and external benchmarks.

• 2-4. Revision history and governance

• Governance and a clear revision history are pivotal aspects of the LAH.893.909 specification. As of May 20, 2025, the specification has undergone several revisions, the most recent being in early May 2024. This revision history reflects Volkswagen’s commitment to continuous improvement and responsiveness to emerging technologies and market needs.

• The governance structure outlined in the specification dictates the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders involved in software development and quality assurance processes. It emphasizes the importance of cross-functional collaboration and shouldering collective accountability for adhering to established standards.

• The ongoing engagement with suppliers is crucial in this governance model, as regular training sessions and updates ensure that all parties are aligned with the most current specifications and requirements. This iterative approach not only supports compliance but also fosters innovation and adaptability in the software development landscape.

3. Volkswagen AG Quality Framework Agreement for Procurement

• 3-1. Purpose and scope of the agreement

• The Volkswagen AG Quality Framework Agreement for Procurement is designed to outline the essential responsibilities and procedures for module suppliers delivering components to Volkswagen. As per the latest document dated April 15, 2025, the agreement emphasizes comprehensive quality management practices that ensure all parts and assemblies meet Volkswagen's stringent quality standards. It highlights that suppliers are accountable for the quality assurance of all components they provide, underscoring the importance of a robust quality management system beginning with the initial stages of procurement. This framework aims to enhance collaboration between Volkswagen and its suppliers by providing clear expectations regarding quality responsibilities.

• 3-2. Supplier quality assessment criteria

• The agreement stipulates specific quality assessment criteria that include the supplier's responsibility to ensure the integrity of all module components. Module suppliers are tasked with conducting thorough quality control checks, summarizing the findings in technical documentation, which Volkswagen requires for their quality evaluations. Volkswagen's quality assurance teams perform incoming goods checks to verify compliance with approved standards. The framework also necessitates that any defective parts identified during inspection must be addressed swiftly, with the supplier implementing corrective actions effectively. This systematic approach to quality assurance aims to mitigate risks and enhance the overall reliability of supplied modules.

• 3-3. Roles and responsibilities in commissioning

• In terms of commissioning, the agreement delineates clear roles and responsibilities between Volkswagen and its suppliers. It specifies that once a supplier is contracted, they must manage external change processes, including monitoring schedules for both self-procured and designated parts. Furthermore, quality assurance responsibilities extend to managing warranty claims in collaboration with Volkswagen's service division. Suppliers must ensure their ability to provide timely documentation for all changes made to parts and comply with Volkswagen's stringent quality guidelines, thus fostering a seamless collaboration during the commissioning phase.

• 3-4. Integration with Group-wide quality policies

• The framework agreement emphasizes alignment with Volkswagen's overarching quality policies, including the "formel-Q-konkret" quality management process. This integration ensures that suppliers adopt uniform quality assurance methods that align with Volkswagen's standards. Moreover, consistency in applying these policies across different suppliers and modules promotes standardization and preserves a high level of product quality across the board. This unified approach aids in reducing compliance risks while enabling continuous quality improvement, as suppliers are held accountable to the same rigorous standards that Volkswagen implements within its operations.

4. Customer-Specific Requirements under IATF 16949:2016

• 4-1. Relationship between IATF 16949 and VW requirements

• IATF 16949:2016 is a global standard for quality management systems specifically tailored for the automotive industry. It establishes a framework that organizations must adhere to in order to demonstrate their ability to consistently deliver products that meet customer and regulatory requirements. Within this framework, Volkswagen Group has articulated specific customer-specific requirements (CSRs) that align with and elaborate on the core criteria defined in IATF 16949. These CSRs serve not just as a guideline but as a necessary component for compliance, ensuring that suppliers understand not only what standards must be met but also how these should be implemented in practice. The formal integration of CSRs into the quality management system is mandated by clause 4.3.2 of IATF 16949:2016, which emphasizes the evaluation and inclusion of customer requirements within organizational scope.

• 4-2. Interpretation of core criteria

• The core criteria within IATF 16949 focus on aspects such as continuous improvement, defect prevention, and reduction of variation and waste in the supply chain. Volkswagen's CSRs take these principles and specify additional requirements that suppliers must follow. For instance, while IATF sets the expectations, CSRs delineate the specific methods for achieving compliance, such as defining audit frequencies, ensuring product integrity, and establishing clear responsibilities within the supplier organization. This structured approach helps to foster a more comprehensive understanding of compliance and quality expectations among suppliers. It is also crucial for organizations to routinely track amendments to CSRs to keep their quality management systems up-to-date, effectively minimizing compliance risks.

• 4-3. Additional customer-specific demands

• An essential aspect of compliance with IATF 16949:2016 is the adherence to additional customer-specific demands which Volkswagen provides through its quality agreement known as Formel Q. This agreement serves as a detailed framework that outlines precise quality expectations and other logistical requirements, including timely deliveries and efficient communication. The structure of Formel Q includes multiple chapters, with an emphasis on topics such as order placement quality criteria, collaboration during product development, and quality supervision in serial production. Each chapter addresses specific facets of supplier performance, thus ensuring that compliance efforts are comprehensive and aligned with Volkswagen's overarching quality objectives. Moreover, adherence to legal provisions and regulations across the entire supply chain is also emphasized.

• 4-4. Cooperation strategies for compliance

• To ensure compliance with both IATF 16949:2016 and Volkswagen's CSR, effective cooperation strategies between Volkswagen and its suppliers are paramount. These strategies may include regular training sessions, joint audits, and a transparent feedback loop for continuous improvement. Volkswagen has implemented mechanisms to facilitate effective communication through structured platforms, where suppliers can discuss challenges, provide updates on compliance efforts, and share best practices. The emphasis on collaborative development processes, particularly during product introduction phases, is crucial, as this fosters early identification of potential non-compliance issues, thereby reducing risks associated with product quality. Furthermore, ongoing support from Volkswagen’s quality assurance teams can enhance suppliers' capabilities to meet and exceed the customer-specific demands outlined in the IATF standard and the Formel Q agreement.

5. Synthesis and Best Practices for Supplier Alignment

• 5-1. Harmonizing software and quality standards

• In the context of Volkswagen Group's procurement ecosystem, harmonizing software and quality standards is a critical area for enhancing supplier alignment. The Group Basic Software Requirements specification (LAH.893.909) lays a foundation that requires compliance with software protocols across all suppliers. This document was revised most recently on May 2, 2024, indicating that ongoing updates are essential in responding to emerging software technologies and quality benchmarks. Aligning these standards ensures that all suppliers are equipped to provide the necessary software capabilities that meet Volkswagen’s stringent quality prerequisites. According to insight from the Quality Framework Agreement, each supplier engages with a comprehensive quality assurance process that translates these software requirements into actionable quality measures at every production stage. The intersection of these guidelines promotes a cohesive understanding of expectations across the supply chain, minimizing discrepancies and fostering a culture of quality-driven collaboration.

• 5-2. Process integration across procurement and development

• Integrating procurement and development processes is vital for achieving seamless operations within the Volkswagen Group. The latest documentation highlights significant interdependencies between these departments, particularly emphasizing the cooperation strategies specified under the customer-specific requirements of IATF 16949:2016. For instance, suppliers are expected to align their project management tools and testing methodologies with the overarching procurement objectives as outlined in both Group Basic Software Requirements and the Quality Framework Agreement. This integrated approach not only streamlines supplier onboarding but also shortens production cycles, enabling rapid adjustments in response to production demands or market changes. Adopting methodologies such as agile project management can further facilitate this integration, aiding in the timely identification and resolution of potential compliance issues.

• 5-3. Risk management and continuous improvement

• Effective risk management strategies are embedded within Volkswagen Group's supplier alignment framework. The emphasis on continuous improvement underpins the quality orientation articulated in both the LAH.893.909 guidelines and the Quality Framework Agreement. Suppliers are encouraged to implement robust risk assessment frameworks that account for potential disruptions in the supply chain. This proactive stance enables organizations to engage in iterative feedback loops, essential for ensuring that quality commitments are not merely compliance-driven but are part of a comprehensive operational strategy. Continual training and development, guided by the principles of the Formel Q standards, serve to enhance supplier capabilities further, ensuring that they can anticipate and respond swiftly to challenges while aligning with Volkswagen’s commitment to quality excellence.

• 5-4. Roadmap for digital collaboration

• In today's rapidly evolving automotive industry, establishing a roadmap for digital collaboration among suppliers is essential for achieving efficiency and transparency. As Volkswagen Group transitions towards more digitalized procurement practices, the adoption of collaborative platforms that facilitate real-time communication and data sharing is increasingly prioritized. These digital solutions not only enhance visibility into the supply chain but also support the dynamic interaction needed to meet the evolving requirements set forth in documents like the LAH.893.909 specification and the IATF 16949:2016 customer-specific requirements. Encouraging suppliers to utilize digital tools for documentation and compliance tracking minimizes friction during audits and quality assessments, inherently reducing risks associated with non-compliance. As the automotive landscape advances, the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence will likely play a pivotal role in refining these collaborative efforts.

Conclusion

• In conclusion, the multilayered requirements established by Volkswagen Group—from the Group Basic Software Requirements (LAH.893.909) to the formalized Volkswagen AG Quality Framework Agreement and the specific interpretations of IATF 16949:2016—collectively build a robust standard set for supplier operations. These harmonized standards facilitate enhanced transparency in the procurement process and significantly reduce compliance risks across various operational facets. By committing to continuous quality improvements, Volkswagen positions itself and its suppliers for greater adaptability in a rapidly changing automotive landscape.

• To maintain an effective supplier ecosystem, it is imperative for procurement and development teams to actively implement cross-functional governance structures. The digitalization of audit and feedback loops will not only streamline compliance processes but also foster ongoing alignment with future revisions of industry requirements. Moreover, the establishment of a structured roadmap for collaborative engagement will ensure that Volkswagen and its suppliers are not only prepared for current challenges but are also poised to leverage advancements in technology, thus driving innovation and operational excellence in the face of evolving market demands. As the automotive sector continues to transform, ensuring these standards remain relevant and effectively communicated will be crucial for sustaining competitive advantage.

Glossary

• LAH.893.909: LAH.893.909 is the Group Basic Software Requirements specification established by the Volkswagen Group, first released in 2002 and most recently updated on May 2, 2024. It defines the quality expectations and software performance standards necessary for consistent development processes across suppliers in the automotive sector.

• IATF 16949:2016: IATF 16949:2016 is a global quality management standard exclusively for the automotive industry, which builds on ISO 9001 principles. It ensures that organizations demonstrate their ability to consistently produce products that meet customer and regulatory demands. Volkswagen outlines customer-specific requirements under this standard to guide supplier compliance.

• Volkswagen AG: Volkswagen AG is the parent company of the Volkswagen Group, which oversees multiple brands and sets standards for quality and production protocols within the automotive industry. As of May 20, 2025, it emphasizes stringent quality management practices through various frameworks such as LAH.893.909 and the Quality Framework Agreement.

• Quality Framework Agreement: The Volkswagen AG Quality Framework Agreement for Procurement, updated on April 15, 2025, outlines the responsibilities and quality assurance procedures that suppliers must follow when delivering components to Volkswagen. This agreement is aimed at ensuring that all suppliers meet Volkswagen's stringent quality standards.

• Customer-Specific Requirements (CSRs): CSRs are additional quality requirements set by Volkswagen within the framework of IATF 16949:2016. These specifications clarify the compliance expectations for suppliers, detailing specific standards and actions required to meet Volkswagen's quality management system.

• Continuous Improvement: Continuous improvement is a key principle in quality management, emphasizing ongoing incremental enhancement of processes, products, and services. In the context of Volkswagen, it is a foundational requirement across all quality frameworks and agreements to enhance supplier performance and reduce defects.

• Supplier Cooperation: Supplier cooperation refers to the collaboration between Volkswagen and its suppliers to ensure adherence to quality standards. Effective cooperation is critical in achieving compliance with specifications like LAH.893.909 and IATF 16949:2016, particularly through regular training and communication.

• Procurement: Procurement involves the process of acquiring goods or services, including the sourcing of vehicle components in the automotive industry. Volkswagen's procurement strategies are integral to maintaining quality standards and aligning supplier contributions with organizational goals as of May 2025.

• Cybersecurity Standards: Cybersecurity standards refer to the protocols and measures set to protect vehicle-based systems from cyber threats. As automotive technologies become increasingly interconnected, adherence to stringent cybersecurity requirements is crucial for suppliers within the Volkswagen framework.

• Risk Assessment: Risk assessment is a systematic process used to identify, analyze, and mitigate potential risks involved in the development and delivery of automotive components. Suppliers are expected to conduct thorough risk assessments to ensure compliance with Volkswagen's quality guidelines.

• Functional Testing: Functional testing is a quality assurance process that evaluates whether a software component performs its intended functions correctly. This type of testing is critical for suppliers in demonstrating that their products align with Volkswagen's quality metrics.

• Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD): CI/CD refers to a set of practices that enable teams to deliver software updates more frequently and reliably. This methodology is important in the context of the software development processes outlined in LAH.893.909 for suppliers to improve efficiency and responsiveness to market changes.

• Digital Collaboration: Digital collaboration involves the use of technology and digital tools to enhance communication and coordination among suppliers and Volkswagen. As of May 20, 2025, such collaborative approaches are increasingly prioritized to streamline compliance and operational processes.

• Formel Q: Formel Q is Volkswagen's internal quality assurance agreement that outlines specific quality expectations and logistical requirements for suppliers. It is structured to ensure comprehensive compliance with both Volkswagen's and industry standards as part of the quality management system.

Source Documents

• Group Basic Software Requirements - VWgroupsupply.comhttps://www.vwgroupsupply.com/one-kbp-pub/media/shared_media/documents_1/einkaufsbedingungen/cariad/mitgeltende_unterlagen_oeb/konzern_grundanforderungen_software_lah_893_909/Group_Basic_Software_Requirements_LAH_893.909.pdf
• VOLKSWAGEN AG - Quality framework agreement - Calidadhttps://notasdecalidad.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/formel-q-quality-framwork-agreement-2001.pdf
• Formel Q – Key Quality Requirement for Cooperation with VW ✅https://www.automotivequal.com/formel-q-fundamental-quality-requirement-for-cooperation-with-vw-customer/