Case Study - Vehicle Control System

Overview

The OVCS project addresses a key challenge in the automotive industry: the lack of interoperability between car components. We're breaking down the siloing and vendor lock-in that plagues the transport sector by creating a platform that seamlessly connects parts from different manufacturers, allowing them to communicate and work together. This approach prioritizes transparency and control for users, contrasting with the often opaque practices in the automotive sector. Our efforts are focused on building a robust and adaptable solution that redefines how vehicle components interact.

A key achievement of the OVCS project is the successful conversion of a 2007 VW Polo into an electric vehicle using our platform. We prioritize cost-effectiveness and accessibility by utilizing readily available hardware like Raspberry Pis and Arduinos instead of relying on expensive, proprietary components. Furthermore, we leverage the power of Elixir and the Nerves framework to develop efficient and reliable firmware, enabling a high level of customization and innovation. This allows us to create a truly open and adaptable electric vehicle platform.

Finally, the OVCS project delivers both manual and remote control capabilities. By combining open-source hardware, innovative software, and flexible control options, OVCS aims to revolutionize the automotive aftermarket and drive a new era of vehicle customization and control.

To further our expertise and push the boundaries of what's possible, the OVCS project was undertaken in 2024. Recognizing the need for deeper understanding in the realm of embedded systems and firmware development, we made the strategic decision to forgo taking on new customers that year. This allowed us to dedicate our full attention to a project that extended far beyond a simple hobby endeavor, providing invaluable experience in building robust and complex firmware solutions for a real-world application.

What we did