What happens to a car when the company behind its software goes under?
4 hours ago
- #automotive
- #reliability
- #software
- Modern cars are increasingly dependent on software and subscriptions, making their functionality tied to the survival of the companies behind their code.
- Software-defined vehicles can become inoperable if the supporting servers or companies fail, unlike traditional mechanical issues that were easier to diagnose and fix.
- The Fisker Ocean Sport, an all-electric SUV, exemplifies this issue as the company filed for bankruptcy just a year after launching, leaving customers with potential software support concerns.
- Traditional mechanical failures were often quickly resolved by mechanics, whereas software issues may require specialized technicians, leading to longer downtimes.
- Some modern cars rely on smartphone apps for basic functions like unlocking doors, and without these apps or server support, the car may not function properly.