#Germany #Stuttgart #SDV #Vector #QNX

QNX and Vector: Pioneering a New Era in Automotive Software

In a significant move for the automotive industry, QNX, a division of BlackBerry Limited, and Vector Informatik GmbH, headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, have announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU). This strategic partnership aims to co-develop and deliver a next-generation embedded software platform designed to streamline the complexities of software integration in software-defined vehicles (SDVs).

The collaboration combines QNX's safety-certified operating system with Vector's reliable middleware technology, creating a robust foundational platform that serves as a core for app development and deployment across next-gen electronic control units (ECUs). The platform will not only enhances development efficiency but also offers flexibility and choice in scheduling components and applications through the incorporation of TTTech Auto's deterministic time-triggered scheduling algorithm, „MotionWise Schedule“. This extension reflects the synergy of two industry leaders, pooling their strengths to meet rising automotive demands.

A Leap Towards Enhanced Efficiency

The controls platform has been crafted around the tenets of performance, safety, and usability. It aims to reduce redundancy in software development and rework for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), significantly shortening lead times from research and development to mass production. By leveraging this technology, OEMs can focus more on differentiating the in-car experience, ensuring that they meet the ever-evolving demands of today's consumers.

Moreover, this initiative marks a critical shift from traditional value chains in the automotive sector to dynamic value networks. The collaboration promotes the establishment of an open and collaborative ecosystem while ensuring alignment with industry standards.

John Wall, the COO and Head of Product Engineering Services at QNX, emphasized the urgency of this change: “The automotive industry is at a tipping point where the complexity of software is beginning to outpace innovation speed. Our partnership with Vector aims to remove significant friction from the development process, emphasizing the creation of 'experiential value' that OEMs can focus on.” This foundation promises an accelerated pathway for developing smarter and safer automobiles.

A Collaborative Approach to Intelligent Car Development

Matthias Traub, President and Managing Director of Vector, expressed excitement about this collaboration, seeing it as a milestone in evolution in automotive software engineering. He stated, “Working alongside QNX allows us to develop an open, secure, and scalable platform that delivers class-leading performance. This will support not just OEMs but the entire ecosystem of developers engaged in building the next generation of intelligent vehicles.”

The initial access version of the platform is set to be made available to select partners in late 2025. This version will facilitate early prototype development and integration verification, gathering crucial feedback for further refinements. The final certified version, compliant with the highest standards of functional safety (ISO 26262 ASIL D) and cybersecurity (ISO 21434), is expected to be released by the end of 2026, showcasing the partners’ commitment to quality and safety.

The early showcase of the embedded software platform took place during the Automobil-Elektronik Kongress held in Ludwigsburg, Germany, from June 24 to 25, where QNX and Vector shared insights with attendees alongside their collaboration partner, TTTech Auto.

For further details, visit QNX's official website and follow @QNX News.

About BlackBerry

BlackBerry provides intelligent software and services for governments and enterprises worldwide. Its high-performance foundational software enables large automobile manufacturers and industries to innovate applications, create new revenue streams, and develop transformative business models, all while ensuring safety, security, and reliability. Based in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, BlackBerry boasts deep expertise in secure communications and offers a robust portfolio compliant with numerous certifications, empowering organizations’ resilience in the face of evolving threats.

About Vector

Vector is a leading company providing software tools and components for the development of software-based electronic systems and network functionality. For over 35 years, Vector has delivered high-performance solutions for embedded systems in automotive, aerospace, medical, railway, and related industries, positioning itself as a key enabler in the revolution of software-defined vehicles (SDVs). With strategic partnerships with major industry players like Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis, Vector integrates proprietary technology components with open-source elements for a modular, scalable software platform spanning from vehicles to the cloud.