EV Automotive Software Development Process Guide

Electric vehicles aren’t just for green tech enthusiasts; they are rapidly becoming the norm for both consumers and companies. Moreover, because of the rapid expansion in technology in the EV marketplace, the demand for charging infrastructures that incorporate sophisticated software is becoming increasingly important.

Electric vehicle software enables the network operator, EV proprietors, and value-added resellers to achieve the objective of making EVs an effortless mode of transportation.

In this blog, we will explore the world of electric vehicle software, highlight a few of the most popular EV automotive development solutions, discuss the importance of software in the EV business, and examine the cost of constructing EV software.

Understanding EV Software Development

As the EV market grows, the need for quality EV software has likewise increased. According to research, EVs may constitute 25-30 percent of the sales of cars within the United States by 2030, which means that more people will soon be using electric cars on freeways.

According to the definition, the electronic vehicle’s software controls the vital components of electric vehicles, like the motor, battery, and charging mechanism. EV software is also accountable for ensuring that the EV runs safely and efficiently and offers drivers smooth and comfortable driving.

The most important components of the software for electric vehicles development include:

Powertrain Control Module

It regulates its electric motor and powertrain, ensuring that the vehicle runs effectively and gives the owner the desired performance.

Battery Management System

BMS is accountable for monitoring and managing the batteries, including their voltage, state of charge, and temperature.

Vehicle Control Unit

The vehicle control unit is the underlying control device of the electric car, integrating all the vehicle subsystems.

Infotainment System

The infotainment system is accountable for providing drivers with the necessary information and entertainment options, such as music navigation and the ability to control the temperature.

Types of Electric Vehicle Software

From regulating the functionality of the vehicle to providing a unique user experience, today’s software is the core of the electric automobile business. However, to create software of this kind, you need to be aware of the various types of software for electric vehicles.

Digital Cockpit Systems

Modern electric vehicles provide drivers with digital driving experiences, and digital cockpit systems are the leading source of this new experience.

They help drivers monitor the most important metrics, such as performance, battery state, and navigation. They also have buttons that allow hands-free control of navigation and media.

Mobility Solutions and Connectivity Apps

The software for electric vehicles provides an experience that is genuinely connected to users, bringing all of the digital devices and applications.

With these solutions, drivers can access their vehicle remotely using their smartphones. They can lock or unlock the doors, access live traffic information, locate charging stations near them, and more.

The principal goal behind developing this kind of application is to enhance the user’s convenience and accessibility.

Autonomous (Self-Driving) Vehicle Software

While self-driving cars are not an option, large automakers like Tesla invest in this software.

They connect cameras, sensors, artificial intelligence, and all the major technologies to create a driverless user experience.

However, the process of developing software can pose issues, including the safety of humans and ensuring compliance.

Vehicle Control and Management Systems

The electric vehicle software focuses on managing the primary features and performance of vehicles.

It is equipped with features for controlling the motor and balancing energy distribution among the motor, battery, and various other systems. The main feature of car controlling and managing software is the selection of driver modes.

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EV Charging Management Software

With the increasing use of automobiles powered by electric motors, consumers will require apps or programs to boost the health of their batteries.

The EV charging management software provides the best options for scheduling battery charging, facilitating payments, tracking battery health, and more.

Fleet Management Solutions

Businesses with an electric vehicle fleet require software that tracks their vehicles in real-time. They also require a simple solution to anticipate car maintenance needs without physically monitoring them.

A fleet management program provides it with automated alerts to maintenance schedules, energy consumption tracking, and route optimization, among other things.

Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)

The software, created exclusively for drivers, includes adaptive cruise control, which can automatically change the car’s speed.

With features such as lane-keeping assistance, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitors, ADAS has become an essential program for EVs.

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Key Features of Automotive Software

In order to create reliable and efficient automotive software, many essential features must be included that will help ease process automation, increase user satisfaction, and take productivity to a new level. The features that are included in automotive software will differ depending on the kind of software being developed.

Below are the most important characteristics usually found in the majority of automotive software applications. We will consider these important aspects when developing custom-built software for automotive companies.

Ordering and Looking Up Parts

The feature simplifies the process of quickly searching for and ordering automobile parts. Customers can use an extensive database to find parts based on specific criteria like part number, model, make, or the year of the car. This feature is designed to provide precise information about the availability of parts and compatibility, thus reducing the chance of ordering errors.

In addition, it comes with automated ordering procedures, order tracking, and regular updates to improve the efficiency of operations for companies in the automotive industry.

Inventory Management

The management of inventory at dealerships and tracking cars and parts is crucial. Tracking helps you monitor stock levels in real time. Automated restocking stops shortages or excess stock as you sort your inventory according to model, type, and condition. This makes it easy to find the products you require.

Furthermore, it analyzes the trends in inventory sales and turnover and provides valuable information that can help improve stock levels. This reduces expenses but also boosts cash flow, which makes efficient inventory management crucial to the success of operations.

Vendor Management

The vendor management module can help companies manage multiple suppliers and service providers. It improves coordination and communication to make order processing and tracking a breeze. This feature offers an easy way to save and retrieve information about the vendor, performance metrics, and pricing.

Companies can assess their vendors’ performance in relation to time to deliver, product quality, and service reliability. This allows them to make educated choices and negotiate more favorable conditions. Effective vendor management ensures an efficient supply chain, cost reductions, and stronger relationships with suppliers.

Sales Management

Dealerships can manage sales with tools that control the whole sales process, from lead generation to closing sales. The tools comprise lead management, sales monitoring, and CRM (CRM). The system collects leads from different sources, assigns them to reps for sales, and tracks their progress throughout the sales funnel.

The CRM records customer data, interactions, and preferences while also allowing personalized communications and follow-ups. Sales tracking gives insight into sales performance, which assists managers in setting targets, identifying trends, and developing strategies for sales improvement. Through streamlining sales processes, dealerships can improve conversion rates, customer service, and revenue growth.

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Technical Guidance

This feature provides businesses with complete repair instructions and vital technical information, improving diagnostic precision and repair effectiveness. This assists in making the correct diagnosis and ensures effective repairs. It includes step-by-step instructions, wiring guides, tips, and service notes. This information will reduce the time for diagnosis while improving repair accuracy and guaranteeing top-quality service.

Repair Alerts

These alerts track vehicles that are maintained at repair centers or by dealerships. They inform customers that maintenance or repairs are needed. The system utilizes diagnostics data, service history, and mileage to determine when attention is required. Customers are notified of tire rotations, oil changes, and more. This proactive method keeps vehicles in tip-top condition and increases customer loyalty. This also increases profits through repeat business and selling additional services.

Customer Portal

Customer portals provide car owners access to personal information about their cars. These include service history, maintenance schedules, and repair status. Customers can schedule appointments, look up invoices, and receive updates on their car’s health through the portal. The ease and transparency increase the customer’s trust and satisfaction. The portal also has the ability to provide informational content, such as maintenance tips and guides, which help customers take better care of their cars.

Quality Management

Quality management checks ensure that all car parts and services comply with safety and performance standards. This involves testing various components and systems and identifying any issues or defects. Quality management also involves processes like audits, inspections, and certifications. These procedures identify problems before they become serious, decreasing the chance of recalls and making customers satisfied. Quality products and services help build confidence and trust among consumers.

Time Tracking

Time tracking is a crucial feature for managing the efficiency and workflow of employees and technicians in the automobile industry. It helps businesses evaluate productivity and resource use. The system records jobs’ start and end times, breaks, and shift durations. The information reveals areas to increase efficiency and guarantees accurate labor billing.

Time tracking can also support performance reviews, assist managers in managing their time efficiently, and recognize the top performers. By optimizing time management, companies can increase the overall efficiency of operations and profits.

Invoicing

Invoicing is a feature that automates billing for parts, services, and labor and helps streamline financial processes. The system creates accurate professional invoices that help track payments and handle outstanding invoices. It can be combined with accounting software to facilitate smooth financial administration.

Automated invoices reduce the chance of errors, speed up billing, and boost cash flow by prompt payment. Businesses can also offer customers different payment options, enhancing the overall customer experience.

EV Software Development Problems and Their Solutions

This article will provide information on the Auto Spare Parts App Development challenges and ways software developers can overcome these challenges:

Challenge #1 -Selecting the Best System Architecture

Due to the complex integration demands that ECU developers have to meet, EV software development typically has architectural challenges. Automotive Safety Integrity Level (ASIL) certification is often required to demonstrate that the design is secure. (ASIL is an assessment system of risk for road vehicles, which is defined by the ISO 26262 standard.)

Many developers utilize a “combo-box” architecture, in which EV functions are combined and integrated into one ECU. When you combine functions like the OBC and DC/DC converter, you have a cooling system and a control system. This reduces costs, complexity, and weight. The ASIL requirement can be fulfilled by using the AUTOSAR stack and a microcontroller with multi core capabilities.

Challenge #2 – Integrating Hardware

Every layer in the EV software architecture works with a specific type of hardware. In the middle, there is a layer devoted to features for infotainment, such as GPS or air conditioning, while the top layer transmits information from the vehicle to a cell phone.

It should not be forgotten that the fundamental layer is responsible for essential tasks, such as interaction with semiconductors and sensors. An OS that can integrate different types of hardware from various vendors must be designed and maintained so that the EV software can provide repair professionals with reliable diagnostic information in real-time.

Automobile App Development Services for electric vehicles effectively integrate hardware components in an EV’s software design. The OS must be able to support a range of hardware made by different manufacturers, ensure compatibility and interoperability, and provide repair technicians with live diagnostic information.

The scalability and versatility of the EV-specific operating system should be given priority for the ease of integration of Hardware components and systems in an EV.

It should be able to determine any connected hardware components and the standard communications channels utilized by the different layers in the software stack.

In addition, it needs to be able to allow over-the-air updates that will enable the rapid release of security updates and software upgrades across the entire fleet to ensure it can keep up with the advancement of new hardware.

Repair specialists can complete repairs and maintenance quickly by implementing comprehensive EV solutions. These solutions include operating systems designed to mix different types of technology and provide accurate diagnostics upon request. Owners can also benefit from an adaptable and scalable EV software system that is ideal for improving electric automobiles.

Challenge #3 – Ensuring Cybersecurity

Electric vehicles are at risk of malware and DDoS attacks when they connect to the infrastructure of EVs, such as charging stations or equipment for EV supply, by USB as well as WiFi. This could expose personal information, such as payment details, to risk. Hackers could damage the battery of an EV because of a ransomware attack.

And, even more importantly, it could make the grid vulnerable to attack. Developers can reduce the risk by taking certain precautions and incorporating advanced security measures when designing ECUs. For instance, the car’s network could be secured with firewalls. Transport-layer security (TLS) is a method that can be utilized to safeguard data when it’s being transferred between the charging station and the network.

Implementing an AUTOSAR BSW secure onboard communications method could secure peer-to-peer communication of application data between embedded networks. A hardware security module can further enhance security by encrypting data and authenticating users.

Challenge #4 – Accommodating Changing Protocols

As EV technology improves, new and evolving protocols for charging station connectivity appear. These protocols differ depending on the charger’s manufacturer, where the station is located, and many other factors. To ensure that drivers are on the move, ECUs must use a communication stack to ensure compatibility across all-electric car components.

Software developers who develop for EVs require a platform that offers the following options to address these challenges:

An AUTOSAR-aware platform to integrate, test, and evaluate software. It also helps to reduce dependence on hardware.

• The support is for Multi-Domain Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), which includes all necessary electrical, mechanical, software, and electronic components.
• Multicore systems make an application available to solve security and performance problems that arise from embedded programming.
• Layered integrated ECU security that can support functional safety applications in every ISO 26262 specified level, from ASIL A to ASIL D, and mix ASIL software partitioning to enable combo-box implementation.
• The full range of charging protocol protocols is fully supported.
• With these abilities in their arsenal, EV developers may confidently tackle the safety, architectural security, and communication issues that arise when developing EV software.

Challenge #5 – Keeping Drivers Safe at All Time

The safety requirements for electric vehicles are becoming increasingly stricter by the second. Drivers risk their lives if appropriate safety measures aren’t in place and, consequently. For instance, a Battery management system (BMS) is responsible for ensuring that the battery in an EV is functioning effectively and must immediately deal with issues or remove defective batteries. Functions that fail are essential in the event of a failure.

In addition, power converters must fulfill the high functional safety standards. For some parts, ASIL compliance is essential.

EV Automotive Software Development Process

Here’s a comprehensive outline of the main steps that are involved:

Requirements Gathering and Analysis

The initial step involves carefully delineating the functions and features of an individual software design for use in the automobile industry. This involves a close collaboration between engineers, developers, project managers, and possibly even the users. Important considerations include:

• User Needs: Which functions can improve the experience and satisfy users’ expectations?
• Safety Regulations: The software has to conform to strict safety rules set by the governing bodies.
• System Constraints: Consider the limitations on hardware resources, power consumption, and the real-time requirements for performance.

Design and Architecture

Software architects create the system’s overall architecture. This is done by defining the interactions between various software components and the hardware they manage. The decisions made here are based on the following:

• Modular Design: Breaking down the software into manageable modules that can be designed and tested in isolation.
• Communication Protocols: Defining the way different software components can communicate with one another and with the hardware in the vehicle.
• Security Architecture: incorporating strong security measures to safeguard against cyberattacks.

Automotive Software Development And Coding

Highly skilled developers write code using specialized programming languages like C++, Python, or Java, adhering to the coding guidelines and best practices. The most common tasks are:

• Test Units: Test individual software modules to verify that they work as intended in isolation.
• Coding Reviews: Expert developers examine code written by other developers to spot potential mistakes and ensure quality code.
• Version Control: Using tools like Git to monitor the changes made, manage multiple versions of code, and aid in collaboration.

The demand for experienced automobile software designers is increasing. You can consider enhancing the skills of your existing team or working with an Automotive Software Development Company.

Verification and Validation (V&V)

This critical stage requires thorough testing to ensure that the software for automobiles functions according to its intended purpose, has safe specifications, and identifies and eliminates bugs before deployment. It includes:

• Verification: Ensure that the software has been built per the specifications.
• Validation: Confirm that the software can meet the requirements and functions the car is designed to meet.
• Hardware in the Loop (HIL) Testing: Test the software using real or fake automobile hardware to test its interactions with physically-based components.

Integration and Deployment

The program is integrated into the car’s hardware and various software elements. This includes:

• Calibration: Fine-tuning the software parameters to ensure maximum performance of particular hardware parts.
• Flashing: transferring the final software code to the electronic control units of the vehicle (ECUs).

Maintenance and Updates

Updates or bug fixes are vital throughout the life of the vehicle to keep functionality up-to-date, tackle emerging security threats, and even introduce new capabilities. This is a matter of:

• Over-the-Air (OTA) updates: The latest automobiles allow the software update to be distributed wirelessly, increasing the speed of delivery and user-friendliness.
• Continuous Monitoring: Observing software performance in real-world scenarios to determine possible issues and areas of improvement.

Programming Languages For Automotive Software Development

For automotive software development, hire dedicated developers who can use several programming languages. However, two of the most commonly used programming languages utilized in developing automotive software are C/C++ and AUTOSAR. Here are a few reasons why you should choose these languages:

C/C++

These languages are efficient and perfect for car systems. Developers can control their language with precision, which allows them to improve performance and directly interface with vehicle components like engines and brakes. Their ability to respond in real-time provides lightning-fast responses essential for safety systems.

AUTOSAR (Automotive Open System Architecture)

AUTOSAR isn’t a language in a single form but a standard framework explicitly designed for Automotive Software Development. It uses C/C++ for its primary functions but has several advantages:

• Code sharing: AUTOSAR permits developers to share code across a variety of automobile models, thereby facilitating time and money savings.
• Streamlined development: Standardization simplifies the process and improves safety and reliability. Imagine several teams working on a complicated automobile; AUTOSAR will ensure all the pieces are in place smoothly.
• Security First: AUTOSAR prioritizes safety by offering guidelines and features for creating secure car software.

Other Languages

In the same way that C/C++ and AUTOSAR are dominating the market, other languages could play an essential role in a specific application:

• Python can be used to prototype scripting, prototyping, and tasks to analyze data.
• Java can be used to create information systems in vehicles due to its platform independence.
• SQL is used to manage databases that are used in car software.

The selection of the programming language used for automotive software development is based on the specific features, performance requirements, and integration with systems already in place.

Conclusion

As technology grows and the demand for electric vehicles increases, the development of EV software becomes increasingly complex. The market is experiencing the emergence of new trends, such as AI and ML-connected vehicles, IoT advanced data analysis, and digital cockpits that increase the security and comfort of driving.



However, overcoming security threats requires significant challenges, such as compatibility with hardware and the necessity of rigorous testing and verification. However, the next phase of EV software development appears promising. Engineers and researchers are working to create higher-quality and more efficient EV batteries and programs to meet the needs of today’s technology.