Digital Transformation archieven

The latest platform is now fully in use across our engineering teams

At the start of January, Contec completed the deployment of EPLAN Platform 2026 across our electrical engineering department. First announced in 2025, EPLAN 2026 brings improvements that are highly relevant for our ongoing engineering work.

We chose to upgrade at the first opportunity. Thanks to eMANAGE, version compatibility is no longer a major concern. Drawing packages can be downgraded when needed, which allows our engineers to begin working with the most recent version from day one.

The installation was completed over the winter holiday period using the new EPLAN Download Center, now embedded in our internal e-Cloud environment. The rollout was smooth, with no system downtime. All teams began working with the updated platform on Monday, January 5, 2026.

New features already making a difference

Before the switch, our users were guided through EPLAN’s e-Cloud podcast and update briefings. That preparation made the transition simple and allowed everyone to explore the new features quickly.

One of the key improvements is the integration of EPLAN Fluid directly into EPLAN Electric P8. There is no longer a need for a separate installation. This change enables users to document hydraulics, pneumatics, cooling, and lubrication systems as part of a single project, supporting mechatronic documentation in one structure. The team is actively exploring how this impacts our workflows and documentation efficiency.

Another new feature is direct access to the Data Portal within the EPLAN Parts Manager. This improves lookup speed but also creates a higher risk of part duplication or unintentional data overwrites. Internal guidelines are being developed to handle this carefully.

In EPLAN ProPanel, predefined views can now be created more easily, which speeds up the process of switching between 3D layout perspectives. This feature supports faster cabinet layout iterations during electrical panel design.

Among the first improvements we welcomed:

Fully integrated Fluid Engineering
Data Portal access via Parts Manager
Improved 3D workflows in ProPanel

What this means for our customers

The EPLAN eCloud platform, introduced in 2024–2025, has already delivered practical benefits for our customers. It enables secure cloud storage of native EPLAN project files with role-based access control, browser-based viewing, and redlining/markup without the need for an EPLAN license.

These capabilities help ensure:

Shorter design cycles
Better quality deliverables
Clearer documentation
Reduced rework in the field
More integrated mechatronic solutions

What’s still on our EPLAN wishlist?

We had hoped to see two major innovations in this release:

A merged 2D/3D environment
P8 and ProPanel combined into a unified design interface
An AI-supported cabinet layout assistant
Auto-generating panel design based on schematic logic

While these features didn’t make the cut for the 2026 release, early previews suggest promising developments ahead, and we are looking forward to EPLAN 2027 with high expectations.

Stable, improved, and ready to explore

Rolling out EPLAN 2026 was a smooth process at Contec, both in terms of installation and adoption. Beyond the technical upgrades, it signals something bigger: the ongoing focus on engineering enablement, giving our teams the tools to design confidently for today and tomorrow.

We appreciate the enhancements. We are aware of the limitations. And most importantly, we are ready to grow with the platform as it evolves.

Want to know more about how we engineer smarter with EPLAN?

Explore our Electrical Engineering services
https://contec-ias.com/service/electrical-engineering/