Crossroads: automotive software expansion and the evolving software developer talent pool

The software developer landscape has expanded considerably in the past two decades, with the advent of the internet, mobile computing platforms, cloud computing and the growth of open source. Even in the specialized world of embedded computing, most sectors have embraced open source, modern cloud-native technologies and extending the cloud to the edge.

More recently, with the rise of the software-defined vehicles (SDV), automakers are embracing the need to increase their software content and reimagine their entire software architecture. This shift is driven in part by the consolidation of computing elements into fewer, more powerful domain and zonal controllers—supporting multiple functions on the same hardware—but also by the need for continuous post-sale innovation and smooth car-to-cloud connectivity.

Automakers now face the dual challenge of acquiring new skill sets while managing cost and profitability pressures. These challenges are compounded by the reliance on outdated proprietary operating systems (OSs) and the fragmented development tools associated with them. Onboarding new software developers typically requires specialized training and comes with a steep learning curve, as the talent familiar with these bespoke systems is limited and costly to develop. The high cost and low availability of domain experts slows the pace of innovation. 

Another key challenge of acquiring talent is that software developers today strategically choose roles that align with their long-term career plans and the skill sets they are developing. Macro trends like cloud-native development, open source and artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are inextricably linked. Attracting top global talent to work with aging, proprietary technologies, even if they offer unique opportunities, is difficult— especially as the industry moves toward newer, modern approaches.

In contrast, automakers can access a much larger group of skilled developers with experience in open, modern operating systems and cloud-native technologies that they have used to transform other industries over the past two decades.

As a leading provider of Linux-based operating systems and a broad portfolio of hybrid cloud productivity solutions, Red Hat supports a wide developer ecosystem for these modern platforms. In particular, Red Hat’s solutions benefit from well-established community support and broad familiarity. Moreover, Red Hat offers direct consulting services and access to an extensive network of global system integrator (GSI) partners. These partners offer in-depth experience and expertise in helping organizations establish the continuous software factory model required to navigate the SDV transformation. 

Automakers looking to establish a modern software operation quickly should tap into these resources. From there, they can evolve towards a leaner internal team structure that better balances innovation and long-term cost management. 

Moreover, non-differentiating middleware is often developed in isolation, increasing duplication efforts This means a significant portion of core middleware fails to add unique value for each manufacturer and could benefit from shared development. Software engineers are wasting valuable time and talent building, optimizing and maintaining such software instead of focusing on application layers. This is another opportunity to optimize a network of skilled developers and manage costs.