The past decade has brought remarkable changes in the automotive industry, but what’s coming next is nothing short of revolutionary. What does the future hold for in-vehicle software architecture? We answered that question for tech journalist Adrian Bridgwater, who sat down with Punitha Sinnapan, VP of Automotive Design and Innovation at Cubic3, to look at the future of mobility and how automakers can gain a competitive edge by embracing software-defined vehicles.
How is in-vehicle software architecture transforming automotive?
The shift towards software-defined vehicles is accelerating, and with it comes a surge in compute requirements that challenge traditional automotive paradigms. Automakers are navigating a rapidly changing business model where software is the driving force. The goal is clear: to consolidate into a unified architecture that can seamlessly run multiple environments tailored to specific domains and functionalities.
At Cubic3, we’re leading the charge in this transformation. Our centralised architecture enables automakers to make swift and simple changes to backend systems, opening the door to new service opportunities and refining existing ones. We reduce complexity, orchestrate innovation, and accelerate progress across this dynamic landscape, empowering OEMs to stay ahead in an industry in constant flux.
How can OEMs improve the lifecycle of the vehicle?
In today’s fast-paced markets, automakers are tasked with innovating quickly and monetising new services. Vehicle development cycles typically span, and by the time a car hits the market, it may already be outdates in terms of the performance. That’s where Cubic3 comes in.
We work with OEMs to develop technologies that ensure continuous future-proof device management. Imagine a world where vehicles can be monitored and updates remotely, with new features and capabilities seamlessly integrated over time. Cubic is at the forefront of this arena, aligning manufacturers and ecosystems to deliver updates without compromising the system’s quality and reliability. We simplify the process, making it easier for OEMs to upgrade and update vehicles throughout their lifecycle.
What role will over-the-air (OTA) updates play?
Traditionally, updating a vehicle’s software meant a trip to the service centre, where a technician would perform on-site updates – and sometimes even requiring hardware changes. Tesla disrupted this model with Over the Air (OTA) software updates, setting a new standard for the industry. where we are now able to improve the system performance and update remotely for different features. Now, system performance can be enhanced, and new features can be added remotely.
Cubic3’s unique combination of software and infrastructure empowers manufacturers to ship vehicles preconfigured for optimum connectivity, with regulatory requirements already in place for each country. Our real-time OTA capabilities give carmakers the flexibility they need. It’s not just about saving time and money – it’s about delivering updates securely, quickly and efficiently, keeping vehicles at the cutting edge.
How will connected software solutions impact future mobility?
The automotive industry is on the brink of a major transition: the shift to shared mobility. With the growing focus on electric vehicles (EVs) and the anticipation of autonomous driving, the way we think about vehicle ownership is changing. Shared mobility is set to become a cornerstone of future transportation, offering users a convenient and efficient system accessible to all.
But to reach this milestone, the entire ecosystem – from infrastructure to regulations – needs to evolve to support autonomous vehicles. At Cubic3, we’re not just anticipating these changes; we’re driving them. Our connected software solutions are paving the way for a future where mobility is seamless, efficient, and within reach for everyone.
