Catena-X

Catena-X Automotive Network is a collaborative data ecosystem initiative launched in 2021 that enables standardized data exchange across the automotive industry value chain. The network implements Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI) principles through the W3C DID and W3C Verifiable Credentials standards, with technical implementations managed through the Eclipse Tractus-X open source project.

The ecosystem's core technical infrastructure includes a Decentralized Identifier (DID) implementation using the did:web method, which enables participants to maintain sovereignty over their identity and data. The network enforces standardized data exchange through specifications like CX-0149 Verified Company Identity and CX-0049 DID Document Schema. Key technical features include:

• Data sovereignty through decentralized architecture
• Interoperability via standardized APIs and semantic models
• Federated trust using W3C Verifiable Credentials
• Integration with Industry 4.0 standards and protocols

The initiative has gained significant industry adoption, with major automotive manufacturers and suppliers participating through the operating company Cofinity-X. Notable implementations include supply chain traceability, carbon footprint tracking, and quality management use cases. The ecosystem continues to expand through regional hubs in Europe, North America and Asia, while maintaining its open standards and vendor-neutral approach through governance by the Eclipse Foundation.