About Benedikt Schonlau
Welcome to viable.works! I'm Benedikt Schonlau, the founder and driving force behind our automotive technology consulting firm.
With over 20 years in the industry, my passion lies in transforming the complexities of software-defined vehicles (SDV), automated driving, E/E architectures, and connectivity into practical, production-ready solutions.
I thrive on cutting through the hype to deliver strategies that truly work for OEMs, Tier-1 suppliers, and investors—helping them navigate rapid technological shifts with clarity and efficiency.
My career began with hands-on roots in engineering, earning my Dipl.-Ing. in Mechatronics in 2005 after vocational training as an industrial mechanic.
I started at IAV GmbH as a consultant in driver assistance systems, advancing to project lead and then head of departments for active safety and automated intelligent transportation systems from 2009 to 2018.
There, I led global portfolios, grew teams to over 70 employees, and drove innovations like the HEAT project for SAE Level 5 autonomous shuttles, along with patented technologies for sensor simulations and safety monitoring.
For insights into related tech stacks, check our Automotive OS Comparison.
From 2019 to 2021 at Consulting4Drive, I headed new mobility initiatives, advising on autonomous vehicles for the Tokyo Olympics and developing business concepts for wiring harness ECUs.
In 2021, I took on the CEO role at SILICONALLY GmbH, where I built an ISO 26262-compliant chip development organization, secured international license agreements, filed several patent applications, and tripled the headcount.
These milestones, combined with expertise in standards like ISO 26262, have equipped me to launch viable.works in 2025 as a hub for pragmatic automotive tech guidance.
Dive into our SDV Protocols guide for more on standards like these.
Growing up on a farm in Ostwestfalen, I learned the value of hard work and precision early on—skills like milking cows with a machine and sowing seeds with a tractor and seed drill taught me resilience and attention to detail that I bring to every project today.
I'm excited to partner with you on your next automotive challenge! Explore our consulting services to see how we can support your projects or just contact me via LinkedIn.