Software updates over-the-air for the future in automotive with ZF

ZF has joined the eSync Alliance, a multi-vendor initiative for Over-the-Air (OTA) update and diagnostic data solutions that could potentially save the automotive industry billions of dollars each year. As vehicles are being prepared for the digitalized future, outfitted with sophisticated, automated features with autonomous functions looming on the horizon, up-to-date software is crucial in ensuring road safety, cybersecurity and efficiency.

Over-the-Air (OTA) updates help to minimize this expense by transmitting newer software versions directly from the cloud into the vehicle via a data connection and with no waiting time, not requiring to return vehicles to a manufacturer’s dealership or a repair shop. Estimates by analysts place the expenditure for software recalls at $3 billion in 2016 in the U.S. alone.

The eSync Alliance is based around the eSync system, a platform combining both cloud and in-car components. The platform was originally developed by Excelfore to provide secure transactions with electronic end devices installed in vehicles. In addition, the system works as a shield against threats from outside the vehicle. It also provides a two-way communication enabling software and firmware updates over-the-air, and collection of real-time diagnostics and telematics data from end devices in the vehicle.

There are currently many OTA systems competing in the market, each with specific update mechanisms. The eSync system aims to establish a unified standard. By taking part in the Alliance, companies benefit from a simplified development environment enabled by a customizable, scalable open platform with standardized features and APIs (Application Programming Interface). For ZF, the open and secure eSync platform also provides opportunities for their extensive portfolio of non-automotive products, such as rail, marine and other industrial transmissions.

Contenuti correlati

• 
  NSK expanding R&D centre and headquarters in China

  NSK announced a major investment for the expansion of its R&D centre and headquarters in China. Located in Kunshan City, near Shanghai, a recent ground-breaking ceremony marked the start of construction. The development will further strengthen NSK’s...
• 
  Open source mobility Hakathon ZF to be held from January 5 to 7

  ZF launches Open Source Mobility Hakathon 2022, a global and virtual event during the CES in Las Vegas, from January 5 to 7, aimed to deploy ideas and projects enabling the transformation of the mobility market. Mobility...
• 
  Autonomous vehicles safety simulation tools Ansys for BMW

  Ansys and BMW have partnered to jointly create an industrial holistic simulation tool chain for developing autonomous vehicle (AV) technologies. The multi-year agreement drives the development of BMW Group’s Level 3 offering and Level 4-5 technology, delivering...
• 
  Schaeffler to acquire Xtronic in the business of e-mobility

  Schaeffler, acting via its subsidiary Schaeffler Technologies, signed a purchase agreement for the acquisition of Xtronic, a technology partner that develops customer-specific software and electronics solutions for the international automotive industry. The owner-managed company employs some 170...
• 
  Smart driving chassis by ZF for autonomous driving

  The IDDC – Intelligent dynamic driving chassis – by ZF combines innovative chassis systems, electric drives and environmental sensors with hardware and software to create a skateboard autonomous driving platform. The platform can enable vehicles to see,...
• 
  Advanced steering wheel ZF for autonomous driving

  Aimed to support Level 3 and above autonomous driving functions, ZF developed an advanced steering wheel concept, helping to enhance safety and driver awareness. The system incorporates gesture control via graphic displays to enhance communication between driver...
• 
  Autonomous driving, Siemens acquires Tass International

  Siemens acquires Tass International, a global company in the automotive market focused on autonomous driving, integrated safety, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and tyre modeling. Siemens will acquire 100% of the share capital of Tass International, and...
• 
  Revenue growth ZF in the first half of 2017

  ZF increased its sales to € 18,3 billion in the first six months of 2017, despite a strong growth in R&D expenses. The sales increase is by 2,7% over the first six months of 2016, with adjusted...
• 
  Mobility 4.0, Hexagon acquires Vires

  Hexagon expands its simulation platform by accelerating its autonomous driving strategy for the future of mobility 4.0 with the acquisition of Vires. The German company Vires is a worldwide provider of simulation software systems that support the...
• 
  Intelligent mobility trends Frost & Sullivan

  Frost & Sullivan talked about the trends on Intelligent mobility during a dedicated event last June, focusing on convergence of autonomous driving, connectivity and electrification in the automotive industry. High profile speakers and leading industry players agreed...