From a very limited utilization rate in the seventies, CAE tools are now being extensively utilized by the automotive industry. This utilization however has not reached its full potential. So far analytical simulation has been playing a supporting role in the physical simulation paradigm. To reach the full potential of analytical or virtual simulation in reducing the vehicle development timing and cost, a paradigm shift and a role reversal between the physical and the virtual domains need to be achieved. This paper discusses the physical and virtual paradigms in vehicle development processes. In addition, trends in utilization of analytical tools and simulations such as the design engineer concept and shipping analysis overseas are considered. The effects of these trends on achieving full development of the virtual simulation paradigm for total cost and time reductions from concept to manufacturing are discussed.
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