Digital solutions for automotive: trends and challenges

Automotive software development changes every aspect of the driving experience, introducing opportunities like improved performance, enhanced personalization, and self-driving cars. With the help of AI, fused sensors, and embedded software, a car becomes a software-defined vehicle with new market opportunities and challenges.

What are software-defined vehicles (SDVs)? What opportunities exist in implementing digital solutions for automotive? What challenges does automotive digital transformation bring, and how can they be overcome? Let’s find out together!

What is a software-defined vehicle?

A software-defined vehicle (SDV) is a vehicle where software plays a central role in controlling and updating critical functionalities. Unlike traditional cars, where hardware dictates performance and features, this one relies on software for continuous enhancement and adaptability. This type of car constantly improves through software updates, enhances performance for existing systems, and receives entirely new features.

Here are some key characteristics of SDVs:

• Software-centric architecture: The core of such a vehicle is its software architecture, which allows for easy modification and updates, unlike traditional hardware-based systems.
• Continuous improvement: Software updates can offer features like improved engine performance, enhanced driver-assistance systems, and entirely new functionalities that weren't present when the car was manufactured.
• Personalization: Digital features can be tailored to individual preferences, allowing drivers to customize their in-vehicle experience.
• Improved safety: The updates can address safety vulnerabilities and refine driver-assistance systems.
• Future technologies foundation: SDVs lay the groundwork for developing self-driving cars and other advanced automotive features that rely heavily on software and data processing.

It is also important to mention that the software architecture of an SDV is not monolithic. Digital solutions for automotive businesses transform vehicles into Electronic Control Units (ECUs) and Domain Control Units (DCUs) networks:

• ECUs act as specialized computers, each dedicated to controlling a specific function within the car. One ECU might manage engine performance, another might handle airbag deployment, and another could be responsible for the anti-lock braking system (ABS).
• DCUs, on the other hand, are more advanced coordinators. They consolidate the functions of multiple traditional ECUs into a single unit, enabling them to handle more complex tasks and manage a wider range of data.

This collaborative network allows for features and functionalities, once solely determined by hardware, to continuously improve.

What are the advantages of an SDV?

The shift to digitalization of automotive offers significant benefits. New features and functionalities can be added or improved throughout a vehicle's life cycle, keeping cars relevant for longer. Digital solutions for automotive can be fine-tuned to optimize engine performance, improve energy efficiency (or fuel economy), and enhance the responsiveness of various systems. Additionally, the software allows for the personalization of the driving experience. Settings for driver assistance features, infotainment preferences, and even instrument cluster layouts can be customized to individual user needs.

Furthermore, due to their software architecture, SDVs offer a significant advantage in cybersecurity. Regular updates deliver not just performance enhancements but also crucial security patches. Those vehicles that leverage sensor fusion are even more robust against errors associated with environmental factors. Moreover, their dynamic defense system safeguards the vehicle against cyberattacks and protects passenger data.

The rise of the SDV presents both opportunities and challenges for car manufacturers. It offers a significant market opportunity to capitalize on the growing demand for connected, customizable, and future-proof vehicles. The ability to deliver software updates throughout a vehicle's life cycle opens doors for new revenue streams, such as subscription-based services for additional features or functionalities.

The challenge is that strong software development expertise is becoming increasingly important. Therefore, many automotive businesses choose to partner with technology companies to stay competitive. Let’s now look at some trendy technologies that can transform the industry.

1. Advanced connectivity options

One of the defining trends in digital solutions for automotive is the ever-increasing integration of sophisticated connectivity options. These go beyond basic Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, leveraging a broader range of sensors and data to deliver a richer and more personalized experience.

Modern vehicles have various sensors that gather data about the car's environment and performance. These include familiar ones like GPS for navigation, magnetometers for compass functionality, and gyroscopes for detecting vehicle orientation. But the sensor suite extends beyond these, incorporating advanced sensors like LiDAR (light detection and ranging) for high-resolution 3D mapping, radar for long-range object detection, and cameras for visual perception.

This abundance of sensor data forms the foundation for a powerful technology known as sensor fusion. By combining data from various sensors, the vehicle creates a comprehensive understanding of its surroundings. This data enables advanced features like real-time traffic updates, personalized route suggestions, and proactive rerouting based on live conditions.

Connectivity within the automotive industry extends far beyond individual vehicles and enables a range of other functionalities and services:

• Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication allows cars to exchange data with other vehicles and roadside infrastructure, improving safety by providing real-time collision warnings and optimizing traffic flow through dynamic signal adjustments.
• Machine-to-machine (M2M) communication enables remote diagnostics and maintenance capabilities, allowing dealerships to proactively address potential issues before they become major problems.
• Secure payment systems integrated within vehicles allow drivers to make contactless transactions for services like parking fees, tolls, and gas station purchases, streamlining the driving experience.
• Smartphone integration can eliminate physical keys, enabling the driver to securely and conveniently access and start the car.

2. The demand for EV charging stations

As the electric vehicle (EV) market grows, the need for better charging solutions also rises. By 2030, McKinsey predicts 120M EVs on the road, but charging them efficiently is both a challenge and a market opportunity. One way to act on it is to build custom chargers, which offer several compelling advantages over off-the-shelf solutions. For instance, they can provide scalability, functionalities like faster charging speeds, or remote monitoring and control features to accommodate future needs.

While custom chargers offer significant advantages, they come at a premium cost. Off-the-shelf solutions can be a good option for basic needs, but they may lack the flexibility and advanced features. Several factors to consider include cost, scalability, and specific requirements. McKinsey estimates that levels 1 (AC 120 volts) and 2 (AC 240 volts) chargers will handle the majority of energy consumption, but level 3 chargers (DC) may offer specialized benefits for certain users.

Overall, EV chargers offer a compelling solution for meeting the growing demand for efficient and reliable charging infrastructure. With careful planning and strategic decision-making, custom EV charger development can be a worthwhile investment for long-term success in the automotive business.

Here you can learn more about EV charger development

3. Autonomous driving cars

One way digital automotive solutions transform the industry is through Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving, in particular. Self-driving cars represent a significant area of development. AI algorithms and sensor technology are continuously refined to enable autonomous vehicles to navigate complex road environments safely and efficiently. 

Continuous advancements in AI algorithms and sensor technology are key drivers behind the progress in autonomous driving. Computer vision technologies enable vehicles to perceive and interpret their surroundings in real-time, making informed decisions to navigate safely and efficiently. From detecting obstacles and recognizing traffic signs to predicting pedestrian behavior, AI plays a crucial role in enhancing the capabilities of self-driving cars.

Moreover, the integration of AI extends beyond basic navigation, including advanced features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and automated parking. These digital solutions for automotive not only improve driving safety but also enhance users' overall experience.

4. The use of AI for automotive manufacturing

Besides self-driving cars, AI is revolutionizing car design, production, and maintenance, shaping the future of vehicles on a more fundamental level. This technological advancement drives innovation across every aspect of the automotive industry, from manufacturer to consumer. Here are some of the key ways AI is impacting the automotive landscape:

• Generative design: AI algorithms create and optimize designs for aerodynamic, weight-reduced, but robust blueprints for car parts. For this purpose, AI analyzes vast datasets containing information on material properties, engineering principles, and performance simulations. These novel design solutions result in the creation of vehicles that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also engineered for optimal performance.
• Predictive car maintenance: Analyzing vehicle sensor data helps AI anticipate potential problems before they occur. This practice allows for preventive maintenance, reducing the risk of breakdowns and extending vehicle lifespan. AI can also personalize maintenance schedules based on individual driving habits and car usage patterns, optimizing maintenance efficiency.
• Automated manufacturing: The manufacturing process is benefiting significantly from AI-powered automation. Robots equipped with AI can handle complex tasks with high precision and efficiency. AI optimizes production lines, manages logistics, and ensures quality control throughout manufacturing. The results are increased production speed, reduced costs, and improved vehicle quality.

While these digital solutions offer tremendous advantages, integrating them comes with its own challenges. Let's explore some of the challenges and learn how to overcome them to fully harness technology's power.

The challenges of digital solutions for automotive 

As McKinsey highlights, the automotive industry is experiencing a profound digital transformation. Today's cars are equipped with up to 150 electronic control units, but by 2030, this number is expected to skyrocket, potentially reaching roughly 300M lines of software code. To contextualize this, consider that a passenger aircraft operates with an estimated 15M lines of code, while a modern fighter jet utilizes about 25M. Even a mass-market PC operating system falls short, with nearly 40M lines of code. This exponential growth in software complexity poses significant challenges, particularly in securing and sustaining the necessary software development talent.

Lack of software development talent

The rapid evolution and abundance of digital solutions for the automotive industry have created a pressing challenge: insufficient software development talent. As cars become increasingly reliant on complex software systems, from advanced driver assistance systems to autonomous driving capabilities, the demand for skilled software engineers is outpacing the available talent pool. 

This shortage poses a significant barrier to progress, hindering the industry's ability to develop, implement, and maintain the sophisticated software solutions required for next-generation vehicles. One way to address this talent gap is to partner with a trusted software development company like N-iX. With more than 2,200 digital experts, N-iX has a proven track record of delivering high-quality software solutions to clients across various industries, including automotive. With our team of experienced software engineers, automotive companies can overcome the challenge of talent scarcity and accelerate their digital transformation initiatives. N-iX offers flexible engagement models tailored to each client's needs, ensuring seamless collaboration and successful project delivery.

Data privacy

The automotive industry is undergoing a data revolution. Vehicles are brimming with sensors, generating vast data about vehicle performance, driver behavior, and even in-car conversations. While this data presents valuable opportunities for car manufacturers to enhance vehicle features, personalize the driving experience, and develop innovative services, it raises a critical concern: data privacy.

Consumers are increasingly concerned about how their data is collected, used, and stored. A data breach can erode trust, damage brand reputation, and lead to regulatory penalties. Here at N-iX, we understand the gravity of this challenge. That's why we prioritize data privacy and security in every aspect of our automotive software development services. Our development processes are built upon industry best practices and rigorous compliance frameworks, including:

• ISO 27001: This internationally recognized standard ensures a robust information security management system (ISMS) that safeguards sensitive data throughout its lifecycle.
• GDPR: We adhere to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), ensuring user data is collected, processed, and stored in line with strict European Union privacy regulations.
• SOC 2: Our SOC 2 Type 2 certification demonstrates the effectiveness of our controls for security, availability, integrity, confidentiality, and privacy.

Compliance with automotive standards

The automotive industry is constantly driven by innovation, but never at the expense of functional safety. Strict standards ensure the reliability and functionality of vehicle software, protecting drivers and passengers alike. Key standards like ISO 26262, which outlines functional safety requirements, ensure vehicles meet rigorous safety benchmarks.

Furthermore, frameworks like ASPICE (Automotive Software Process Improvement and Capability Determination) focus on software development best practices that lead to reliable and efficient automotive systems. Additionally, ISO-29119, the standard for software quality requirements and testing, ensures the software is defect-free and performs as intended. Failure to comply with these standards can delay product launches and pose significant safety risks.

At N-iX, we understand the critical role of compliance in automotive software development. Our team of experts possesses in-depth knowledge of ISO 26262, ASPICE, ISO-29119, and other relevant standards. We partner with car manufacturers to navigate the complexities of software compliance, ensuring their products meet the highest safety and quality benchmarks. 

Conclusion

The automotive industry is shifting due to the rise of the software-defined vehicle. This transformative technology empowers continuous improvement, personalization, and a future brimming with possibilities. From in-vehicle experiences enhanced by seamless connectivity to the evolving potential of self-driving cars, AI is shaping the future of mobility. 

However, challenges like the talent gap and data privacy require innovative solutions. A reliable software development partner like N-iX can empower car manufacturers to overcome these challenges and unlock the full potential of digital solutions for automotive.

N-iX offers a wealth of experience in the automotive industry and a proven track record of delivering high-quality software solutions. Our team of skilled engineers possesses in-depth knowledge of cutting-edge technologies like AI and adheres to rigorous data security standards. Furthermore, N-iX's flexible engagement models ensure seamless collaboration, successful project delivery tailored to your needs, and a smarter, safer, and more software-defined future.