Development of guidelines for in-vehicle software

The most basic vehicular electronic systems may be elementary circuits such as and interior light delay. However, many microprocessor-based systems with complex embedded software are now being fitted. These electronic control systems are often employed in safety critical applications, such as engine management, antilock braking and supplemental restraints. The growth in vehicle electronics will lead to a greater public exposure to safety critical software than in any other commonplace application. It is therefore essential that such software is not only correct but perceived as being correct. The author examines some of the issues involved in ensuring the reliability of software, with particular reference to the development in the UK of guidelines for the application of software to vehicles