Simulation-Based Validation &
Scenario Testing Strategies for
Autonomous Driving Safety
A practical framework for implementing standards-aligned, scalable simulation workflows to validate Level 3–4 driving systems under real-world conditions
Translating Regulatory Demands into Actionable Test Coverage?
This technical guide outlines how engineering teams are building simulation-based validation workflows that reflect current regulatory expectations, without adding excessive complexity or manual effort. From SOTIF analysis to ODD-boundary scenarios and fallback testing, gain clarity on applying standards through structured, repeatable simulation.
Download the Technical White Paper
Current Challenges in Validating Autonomous Systems
Why physical testing alone can’t meet safety and regulatory expectations:
Validating automated driving systems is no longer just about demonstrating core functionality. It requires evidence that the system can operate safely in uncertain environments, manage edge cases, and transition reliably when exiting its operational design domain (ODD). Achieving this level of assurance through physical testing alone is increasingly impractical.
This whitepaper outlines how scenario-based simulation can serve as the foundation for virtual homologation workflows—providing traceability, reproducibility, and scale in a way that aligns with current and emerging regulatory standards. It connects the dots between industry-recognized frameworks and the concrete steps required to implement cloud-based simulation pipelines that support safety-critical validation across development and certification stages.
What You’ll Learn Inside the White paper
A breakdown of the standards, strategies, and tools for scalable simulation-based validation
Applying ISO 21448 (SOTIF) to Perception and System Limitations
Understand how to identify safety risks that arise even when the system functions as designed—especially in edge cases influenced by environmental uncertainty or perception limitations.
Understanding Scenario Taxonomy via PEGASUS
Learn how to structure scenario libraries across six defined layers, covering everything from road layouts and infrastructure to dynamic agents, lighting, and weather variations.
Implementing OpenSCENARIO and OpenODD for Scalable Workflows
Explore how OpenX standards enable consistent scenario definition, variation, and reuse—supporting both traceability and interoperability across tools and teams.
Techniques for AI-Assisted Scenario Generation and Cloud Execution
See how simulation teams are scaling test coverage using AI-based scenario variation, real-world data replay, and parallel execution in cloud environments.
Strategies for Regulatory-Aligned Test Set Design
Discover how to design scenario sets aligned with Euro NCAP, UNECE R157, and fallback/MRM validation criteria—ensuring readiness for virtual homologation workflows.
Using Simulation to Support UNECE Type Approval
Gain insight into how scenario-based virtual testing can fulfill the evidence requirements set by UNECE regulations—particularly for validating Level 3 Automated Lane Keeping Systems (ALKS) under regulation R157.
Why This Matters Right Now
Simulation-first validation workflows are becoming the industry norm—here’s what that looks like in practice
As AV functionality grows in complexity, simulation is no longer just a development aid—it’s a core enabler of standards-compliant validation. Teams are leveraging AI-assisted scenario generation to efficiently scale coverage and reduce blind spots. Real-world data replay and logical-to-concrete scenario workflows help bridge the reality gap, ensuring test cases reflect plausible, high-risk interactions across the entire autonomous stack.
These methods form the basis of scalable, certifiable systems that can adapt to evolving expectations around safety, accountability, and performance. Whether you're working toward regulatory sign-off or internal QA milestones, this whitepaper provides a current, technically grounded framework for simulation-first validation.
Who This Resource Is Designed For
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System and test engineers working on AV/ADAS validation and simulation integration
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Safety and compliance leads navigating ISO and UNECE requirements
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Technical decision-makers evaluating how to scale simulation across teams or programs
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R&D managers focused on building repeatable, future-ready validation pipelines
Access the Technical Whitepaper
Download the full 7-page guide and explore how simulation-first strategies—powered by modern tools like AI-enhanced test coverage and cloud-based scenario orchestration—are enabling safe, certifiable AV development at scale.
