Challenge of Software Quality in Vehicle Development
Software Recalls and the Imperative for Robust Testing in SDVs
When a vehicle recall involves software, customers increasingly expect a seamless over-the-air (OTA) update rather than the inconvenience of a physical service visit. This shift underscores the importance of a software-defined architecture that supports remote diagnostics and updates. However, delivering high-quality software in this context demands rigorous validation to prevent costly failures and maintain brand trust. To succeed, testing must span the entire product and process lifecycle—executed in a repeatable, scalable, and efficient manner.
Examples of OTA Fixes
- Battery Management System (BMS) Updates: Correcting charging logic to prevent overcharging or premature degradation.
- ADAS Calibration: Refining lane-keeping assist or adaptive cruise control algorithms to improve safety and comfort.
- Infotainment System Patches: Resolving bugs in user interface responsiveness or connectivity issues with smartphones.
- Security Updates: Patching vulnerabilities in vehicle communication protocols to prevent unauthorized access.
- Powertrain Optimization: Enhancing energy efficiency or performance through software tweaks to engine or motor control units.
Key Challenges
- Compressed Timelines: OEMs are accelerating development to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
- Budget Constraints: Heavy reliance on physical prototypes and traditional testing methods drives up costs.
- Fragmented Teams and Tools: Disconnected design and test environments lead to poor interoperability, misaligned requirements, limited reuse, and redundant effort.
Quality and Safety Are Major Concerns for OEMs
According to the State of Automotive Software Development report for 2025, the top areas of concern in automotive software development are quality and safety.
| Area | Percentage of Respondents | Top Concerns |
|---|---|---|
| Quality | 29% | Our code base is too complex, testing efforts are not exhaustive |
| Safety | 28% | Difficult to fulfill every IS0 26262 requirement, customers expect us to comply with MISRA |