Ampere and Vector: Virtualization in Software-Defined Vehicle Development with an Integrated Software Factory
Automated processes, faster release cycles, optimal collaboration. Ampere and Vector are advancing Software-Defined Vehicle development with a next-level Software Factory.
Together, Ampere and Vector have implemented a Software Factory to support the development of Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs). The setup supports development, integration, testing, and deployment of middleware and application software, with a focus on structured workflows and automation. Shorter feedback cycles and scalable project setups are enabled.
Built to Move Faster
Automated Processes. Scalable Results.
The containerized Software Factory automates different and scalable processes. It enables faster release cycles, reduces manual effort, and allows developers to test changes early, without depending on physical hardware.
Consistent Data. Reproducible Outcomes.
The Software Factory ensures that identical input data leads to identical output. All development artifacts are managed in a code hosting platform with an attached CI/CD system, in this case GitLab, as the central Source Code Management system. This creates a stable and traceable foundation for large projects with many developers.
Agile Methods. Strong Collaboration.
Ampere adopted an iterative, agile approach that enables developers, architects, and integrators to work in parallel branches. Deliveries are tested using well-defined interfaces and text-based artifacts, ensuring efficient collaboration.
Shared Workflow. Faster Development.
The MICROSAR-based vECU concept enables flexible, cost-effective testing without physical prototypes. A shared DevOps-based workflow allows all contributors to integrate their inputs efficiently, accelerating development and enhancing feature integration.
The Challenge: Scaling Complex Software Development
While vehicle development has traditionally focused on exterior, engine performance, practicality, and hardware, SDVs shift the focus toward software-driven functionality and continuous evolution. However, SDV development brings multiple challenges. The need for fast release cycles of complex software, product diversity, and collaboration between thousands of developers across multiple companies.
The Solution: Automating SDV Development with Software Factory
The DevOps-based, containerized Software Factory combines automation, virtualization, GitLab, Vector engineering tools, and customer-specific technologies. It supports the full developer journey from development and integration to testing and deployment, while enabling easy and cost-efficient tool deployment and execution.
The Software Factory automates key steps such as configuring and integrating applications, building the MICROSAR-based virtual ECU, and running comprehensive Software-in-the-loop tests.
Success Story in Detail
The Vector Software Factory in Detail
A transformative DevOps approach for faster updates, early feedback, and minimized effort through intelligent automation.
As an open and modular DevOps environment, the Software Factory aligns infrastructure, tools, methods, and processes for efficient automotive software development. The right solution to support distributed teams, parallel workstreams, and continuous integration, testing, and deployment.
- Automation and shift-left testing
- Parallel application development
- Consistency and reproducibility
