Software updates: Always up to date

However, many customers visit the workshop as soon as they see "An update is ready" on the display, just to be on the safe side. Sometimes, they also do this because they want clarification and transparency, which each vehicle manufacturer must guarantee.

By the way, in future, software updates are likely to enable even deeper interventions in the vehicle architecture. Systems controlled by artificial intelligence (AI) are constantly optimising themselves using vast amounts of collected data.

For over-the-air updates, the vehicle establishes a secure connection to the relevant manufacturer's server via WLAN or the mobile phone network and using an encrypted Internet connection. Appropriate security measures ensure that only authorised updates are installed. The updates are downloaded in the background, usually when the vehicle is parked. Vehicle owners must be notified when an update is available or they can actively agree to "automatic updates" in advance via the operating display.

Modern vehicles are increasingly networked, which increases the risk of third-party access, i.e. cyber attacks. Manufacturers must therefore ensure that software updates are secure against manipulation and unauthorised access. This requires multi-level authentication processes and end-to-end encryption.

As mobile networks are not always stable, for example, updates are sometimes cancelled. Data integrity must therefore be guaranteed in order to avoid errors. This is stipulated by the EU Directive R156 (software updates), which, from July 2024, will apply to all new vehicles sold. According to the directive, the vehicle manufacturer must in any case ensure that the software is installed securely and that manipulation and unauthorised access are prevented.

HELLA shows what is possible in vehicle customisation, working with premium manufacturer Audi. An entirely new lamp concept has been developed for the new Q6 e-tron. The front lighting not only achieves adaptive light functions, such as glare-free high beam. It also has a digital daytime running light matrix that enables end users to select their preferred digital light signature for the daytime running light from up to eight preset designs. This makes the Matrix LED lamps highly customisable. The daytime running light designs created by the manufacturer, also include specially customised coming home/leaving home emphasis. End users can select the designs via a software-based app or the multi-media interface (MMI) of the all-electric Q6 e-tron, depending on their preferences.