A New Lingua Franca: Why Automotive Software Needs Rust
AGENDA
6:00p Welcome reception
6:30p Presentation with Q&A
7:30p Networking
8:00p End
ABSTRACT
For decades the digital heart of automobiles has been the complicated network of safety-critical embedded controllers that control the powertrain. But now they also include the broad user-facing and connected feature set of a smartphone-esque consumer device, making cars some of the most complicated software products being developed. The legacy languages and techniques that were sufficient in decades past are struggling to adapt to the challenge; new tools are needed and the most fundamental tool in software is the programming language. Rust is a new programming language designed for safety, reliability, and security. It strives to eliminate entire classes of bugs before the program even compiles, such as memory access errors. Rust already powers much of the internet but it's gained significant traction in safety-critical industries like automotive. So what is the language? How does it work? How's it being used now and what promise does it hold for the industry?
BIO
Xander Cesari is an automotive engineer based in Michigan, with a deep passion for cars that dates back to his early years. Starting his career in mechanical engineering, he has transitioned to become a prominent figure in automotive embedded software and systems engineering design processes.
Cesari has worked across various facets of the automotive industry, from combustion engines to electric vehicles, and has contributed to projects for companies like Stellantis (calibrating the Hemi V8 and launching the Ram 1500), Karma, and Rivian, where he helped design on-board diagnostic systems. He is particularly interested in embedded Rust and the pursuit of efficient, "smart" engineering solutions.
Beyond his engineering work, Xander is also a keen car enthusiast and photographer, often sharing his automotive captures. He is known for his insights into the challenges of developing vehicle software within the automotive industry, and as of late 2024, serves as the Automotive Lead at Pictorus, a company dedicated to rethinking the process and tools for developing software for hardware.
