Qnx currently releases software development packages QNX currently releases software development packages using AWS so that partner companies that need immediate development can use them. There are also plans to share and update software development packages if OEMs wish to use other cloud-based development environments, such as MS Azure.
Stellantis N.V. is the leading player using software development packages. The company formed Stellantis Virtual Engineering Workbench (VEW) together with QNX and AWS and is known to have introduced infotainment technology 100x faster than before in the case of the virtual cockpit platform. Through a software-driven approach and deploying QNX hypervisor in the cloud, Stellantis N.V. was able to quickly build infotainment features and applications by replicating the experience in the cockpit and making changes based on real-time feedback.
Benefits
From QNX’s perspective, software development packages are shared periodically using AWS, making it easier to perform security patches and OS upgrades on vehicle models that use the same OS. Additionally, it is expected that quality management will be easy as modern software development methods such as continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD) test-driven development can be equally applied.
On the partner’s side, AWS’ pay-as-you-go policy may be burdensome, but it is expected to be more efficient as it reduces large upfront hardware investment costs and allows planning of usage according to the project budget. Developers can use the same development environment anytime, anywhere in the world and develop software separately from hardware with accumulated experiences in real time without a physical hardware system.
In the context of OEMs and partners, ensuring reliability and safety is important. OEMs can update vehicle information and software development environments periodically using a cloud environment. Partners are also expected to be able to follow the OEM’s standardized development methods and quality management regulations. This cloud-based software development helps expedite infrastructure set up, enhance collaboration, shorten waiting times and improve software development efficiency.
Viewpoint
This new development will trigger more cloud-based software development for the automotive ecosystem. Cars will become more like consumer electronics or computers, similar to the evolution from feature phones to smartphones. QNX is trying to approach developers and partners more easily through real-time updates and packages that are open to the public cloud. Automotive OSs have traditionally been closed. QNX is working towards an open ecosystem, similar to the PC or smartphone development environment. This is a major step towards SDVs