Thesis Work - Autonomous Drive & Active Safety Functions

Thesis Worker at Volvo Cars Welcome to explore the world of Volvo Cars by writing your thesis with us! As a thesis worker in our organization you are supported by a supervisor who follows you during your project. Through your thesis work you will be able to contribute to our company purpose – providing freedom to move in a safe, sustainable and personal way – from day one! 

About this opportunity - Background

In the organization Autonomous Drive & Advanced Driver Assistance Functions, we design and ensure the best behavior of our functions for our customers. We design, integrate, and verify the complete vehicle solution for autonomous cars and driver assist functions. We collaborate with some of the most innovative industry partners to reach our future visions of safety, convenience, and mobility. We develop functions such as Collision Avoidance, Automatic Parking, and Autonomous Driving. Our department will lead several master's thesis projects starting at the beginning of 2026, and we are now looking for students who are eager to help us explore new ideas in a state-of-the-art platform that will enable the delivery of autonomous drive features powered by Artificial Intelligence. With us, you will have a unique chance to make an impact in solving the “engineering problem of the century” of autonomous driving.

Scope of the thesis work

Master Thesis Projects – Spring 2026

1. Solution of Rear-Ended Collisions

Background: Rear-end collisions are common in Volvo’s accident database. This thesis explores ways to reduce such accidents.

Objectives: 

• Investigate solutions for collisions from following vehicles using Volvo accident data.
• Propose a warning function for fast-approaching threats using available vehicle sensors/signals.

Scope:

• Analyze accident data for use cases.
• Propose and implement a simple POC based on available signals and requirements.
• Verify solution and performance.

Qualifications: Mechatronics or similar, Python, control knowledge, and independent research skills.

2. Driver Behavior Models

Background: identify real-life cases that are not covered in our function's ODD.

Objectives:

• Create models to analyze logs and detect cases outside ODD (e.g., AEB speed reduction, Road Edge suppressions).
• Generate SIL scenarios from edge cases.
• Run simulations using reference driver models and identify improvements for ADAS interventions.

Scope:

• Use existing models to find patterns and edge cases in Oden/fleet insight data.
• Provide input for future function development.

Qualifications: Data analysis, programming, AI, and independent research.

3. Scenario Classification via Imagery/Videos

Background: Manual review of CTA/b (Cross Traffic Alert/Brake) and RAB (Rear Auto Brake) triggers is time-consuming. A tool for scenario classification can improve efficiency and accuracy.

Objectives: 

• Develop a model for classifying, clustering, or describing scenarios using Image Recognition/Computer Vision.
• Enable practical use by the end of the thesis; integrate with current systems.
• If possible, implement continuous learning.
• If possible, have a continuous learning process for the result.

Qualifications:

• Strong Python skills.
• Experience with ML libraries (PyTorch, Keras, TensorFlow, scikit-learn).
• Knowledge of image recognition/computer vision.
• Familiarity with CRISP-DM or similar methodology.

4. Parking Spot Recommendation

Background: Parking functions require validation in varied conditions (narrow/broad roads, surfaces, curbs, malls, etc.). Currently, spots are found manually, which is inefficient.

Objective: Develop a solution to classify and suggest parking spots based on user needs.

Scope:

• Allow users to input parking requirements; the tool provides recommendations.
• Maintain a database of chosen spots for validation and vehicle usage.

Qualifications: Programming, data analysis, and the ability to design practical solutions.

Indicate which project interests you most in your application.

What you'll bring

You are a highly motivated, self-driven student in a master’s program. You have a genuine interest and curiosity in the subject matter with good analytical skills. You have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written English, and you are a collaborative team player with a preference to do your thesis in a pair. Your academic field is in areas such as Automotive Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, or Systems, Control, and mechatronics.

Duration

• The work will start in January 2026 (can be discussed).
• The duration for this thesis work is 20 weeks.
• 30 ECTS (academic credits) if in agreement with your Thesis Advisor at the University.
• Each thesis is to be conducted by 2 students working in pairs. If you apply as a pair, make sure both of you submit your applications.

Volvo Cars. For Life. For nearly a century, Volvo Cars has empowered people to move freely in a personal, sustainable and safe way. Today, we are driving bold advancements in electrification, sustainability and automotive safety. To realise our ambitious vision, we are seeking innovative minds who are ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow – today.

At Volvo Cars, we believe extraordinary things are achieved by ordinary people with a passion for making a difference. If you’re inspired by the opportunity to help redefine the future of mobility, we invite you to be part of our journey.

Ready to take the next step?

We’d love to receive and review your application. Selection will be ongoing during the application period, so do not hesitate to send in your application. Attach your CV and personal letter in English stating your interests within the given area and your thoughts and credentials. Apply as soon as possible, but no later than 2025-12-11.

Please note that applications via email will not be accepted.

If you want more information about the projects or simply learn a bit more about the teams, please reach out to Shreyas Horantur - Engineering Manager – Safe Intervention V&V at Shreyas.horantur@volvocars.com or Sofia Sköld – Engineering Manager – Collision avoidance design at sofia.skold@volvocars.com. 

As part of the recruitment process, the final candidates might undergo a background check.

We welcome your application!