Dorchester Group has announced support for two automotive technology businesses, Everrati and SODA.Auto, both based at Heyford Park, as they join forces to advance Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) solutions.
The collaboration brings together Everrati’s expertise in redefining iconic cars as sustainable, luxury electric vehicles with SODA.Auto’s intelligent software platform, which enables the creation of smarter, more efficient vehicles. Together, they are exploring how modular vehicle architecture and advanced systems can help shape the next generation of mobility.
This marks a significant step forward in the development of Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) technology, where software plays a central role in defining how a vehicle performs, adapts and evolves. As part of this effort, SODA.Auto has now established the UK’s first SDV Hub at Heyford Park.
The announcement coincides with a major expansion for Everrati at Heyford Park as the business has now taken a long-term lease on over 10,000 sq. ft of space. Driven by growing international demand, Everrati’s expansion allows the company to scale operations and strengthen its presence at Heyford Park.
Everrati’s move reflects a growing commitment to the location and its advantages as a base for fast-moving, tech-led businesses. One of the key reasons for the expansion is the collaborative environment Heyford Park fosters – a point underscored by Everrati’s new partnership with SODA.Auto, which was developed on-site.
The scale and flexibility of the former RAF base offer a rare advantage for businesses at the intersection of mobility, software, and engineering, providing secure testing spaces, large workshops, and an adaptable layout that enables innovation at speed. Heyford Park is rapidly becoming a leading location for businesses focused on future-facing automotive and technology solutions.
Paul White, Asset Manager at Dorchester Group, commented: “This partnership is a great example of how Heyford Park enables meaningful collaboration. Everrati and SODA.Auto operate in different areas of the automotive sector, but the ability to build strong working relationships in a shared, adaptable environment has clearly played a role in bringing them together.
“These kinds of collaborations are increasingly important in fast-moving industries, and it’s exciting to see them happening right here. Heyford Park is unlike conventional commercial spaces. It’s a place where businesses can think long term, adapt to their needs and scale up.”
Rhodri Darch, Co-CEO, at Everrati, said: “At Everrati, we develop cutting-edge, flexible electric technology solutions for complex, high-performance, niche and specialised applications. We operate two distinct divisions: Powered by Everrati, which provides advanced EV powertrain solutions, and the core Everrati brand – our private client division, dedicated to creating the world’s most iconic electric vehicles.
“Expanding our presence at Heyford Park is a strategic move that supports Everrati’s continued growth and innovation. This environment enables the type of collaboration and agility we need to redefine iconic vehicles for a new era. Our partnership with SODA.Auto is a great example of how proximity and a shared vision can drive real progress. We are excited about what’s ahead.”
Matthew Briggs, Engineering Director at SODA.Auto, said: “SDV Hub at Upper Heyford is the first in the UK and a practical step toward advancing Software Defined Vehicles. It shows how historic sites can support modern innovation and help the UK stay competitive in automotive technology”
Heyford Park is one of the most ambitious regeneration projects in Oxfordshire. The former airbase is being transformed into a thriving mixed-use community, with 9,000 homes and around 7,000 jobs planned over the coming years.
Its commercial district is already home to a growing cluster of businesses across automotive, defence, aerospace and technology – many of which are making use of the site’s unique layout, strategic location, large-scale hangars, existing infrastructure and flexibility for growth.
