Scenario-Based Validation for SAE Level 2+ Features Using Simulation-in-the-Loop (SiL) Systems

As SAE Level 2+ Advanced Driver Assistance Sys- tems (ADAS) become increasingly integrated into production vehicles, the need for structured and repeatable validation strategies becomes paramount to ensure functional safety under real-world conditions. Traditional road and vehicle-level testing methods are not only resource-intensive and time-consuming but also fall short in covering edge cases and maintaining scalability across development cycles. This paper presents a scenario-based validation framework utilizing Simulation-in-the- Loop (SiL) systems, which offers a scalable, cost-effective, and high-fidelity virtual testing environment. Central to this ap- proach is the use of the NHTSA-defined Operational Design Domain (ODD) taxonomy, which guides systematic scenario generation across physical infrastructure, operational constraints, objects, connectivity, environmental conditions, and zones. This structured ODD mapping enables traceability, risk-based test prioritization, and efficient scenario classification into Normal, Stress, Edge, and Out-of-ODD categories. This paper details a modular SiL architecture, automation pipelines, and evaluation metrics aligned with ISO 26262 [4] safety goals. It focuses on validating key SAE Level 2+ features such as Highway Assist, and includes pseudo-code, tool-chain integrations, and visual artifacts to demonstrate practical deployment and regression test management.