#esync

[excelfore]

eSync technologies and the future of secure OTA updates in connected cars

As the automotive industry transitions into the era of Software Defined Vehicles (SDVs), the importance of secure, efficient over-the-air (OTA) software updates has become paramount. Among the leading platforms enabling this transformation is eSync, a standardized OTA software update framework described in the specifications published by the eSync Alliance, and implemented by Excelfore. Currently, several million vehicles across Europe, Asia, and North America rely on eSync for automotive OTA updates, underscoring its global adoption and reliability. This widespread adoption reflects the fact that modern OTA automotive platforms depend on scalable OTA software infrastructure to deliver reliable updates across connected vehicles worldwide.

One of the standout advantages of the OTA solution offered by Excelfore is that it is built on a specification published by the eSync Alliance and supported by a robust, diverse ecosystem. Unlike proprietary, single-sourced systems, the multi-party support base of eSync ensures that numerous stakeholders—ranging from OEMs to Tier 1 suppliers—are continuously working to enhance the platform's security. This collaborative structure strengthens eSync, allowing the platform to evolve continuously as a trusted OTA automotive framework supported by the broader ecosystem. This collaborative approach has fostered a rapid and proactive cadence of security patches, and notably, there have been no publicly reported successful cyberattacks that have penetrated the eSync security infrastructure.

As regulatory requirements for automotive cybersecurity become more stringent worldwide, the strength of a shared ecosystem becomes increasingly valuable. This collective defense model positions eSync as a strategic enabler for manufacturers navigating evolving compliance landscapes. As vehicles become increasingly connected, secure OTA software updates supported by standardized platforms such as eSync are becoming essential to maintaining compliance, reliability, and long-term vehicle lifecycle management.

Further enhancing the efficiency of eSync from Excelfore is adaptive delta compression, which significantly reduces the size of software updates by transmitting only the changes needed to bring in-vehicle software up to date, rather than the full new software. This not only minimizes bandwidth usage (saving money!) but also reduces download times and lowers the risk of connection failure. For large fleets, this efficiency is critical because modern OTA software updates often rely on intelligent data pipelines and cloud infrastructure, such as an AWS data pipeline, to deliver updates at scale.

Looking ahead, several key trends are shaping the future of eSync OTA:

Integration with CI/CD Toolchains: The move toward continuous software delivery in the automotive sector is accelerating. The eSync pipeline, as a multi-company standard, is well-suited for integration into DevOps workflows, allowing for seamless deployment of OTA software updates as part of ongoing CI/CD cycles. When integrated with modern cloud services and AWS data pipeline architectures, eSync technologies help OEMs automate the deployment and monitoring of large-scale OTA software delivery.

AI-Powered Productivity Tools: The future will see increasing integration of large language model (LLM) AI front-ends. These tools can enhance the productivity of OEM administrators by simplifying the management and orchestration of complex OTA deployments.

User-Facing AI Interfaces: The in-vehicle experience will also evolve, with small language model (SLM) AI human-machine interfaces (HMIs) improving the way drivers and fleet operators interact with vehicles. These intuitive interfaces will require frequent OTA updates to make them ever more user-friendly and transparent.

Data-Driven Product Improvement and Lifecycle Management: One of the defining capabilities of eSync is its bi-directional communication pipeline. This feature enables not only software delivery but also comprehensive data gathering from vehicles. This bidirectional architecture allows eSync to function as a complete OTA automotive data pipeline, supporting telemetry collection, diagnostics, and continuous improvement across connected fleets. Over time, this will empower OEMs to use real-world data to enhance product quality, optimize the entire vehicle lifecycle, and improve vehicle features.

In conclusion, eSync is at the forefront of the secure, intelligent, and scalable delivery of OTA software updates in Software Defined Vehicles. As the industry continues to evolve, the combination of security, standardization, AI integration, and bi-directional communication positions eSync as a pivotal platform for the future of automotive OTA.

As connected vehicle ecosystems continue to expand, platforms built on eSync combined with scalable infrastructure such as AWS data pipeline architectures will play a central role in enabling secure and efficient OTA software updates for the next generation of software-defined mobility.

[excelfore]

Ethernet TSN and Automotive Ethernet: The Backbone of OTA, Data Aggregation, and Vehicle Diagnostics

Today’s vehicles are data-driven machines. They run on software as much as on fuel. To stay secure, updated, and reliable, they need a communication backbone that can handle massive amounts of data without delay. That backbone is automotive Ethernet, strengthened by TSN for time-sensitive communication. Together with standards like eSync and SOVD, and with Excelfore eDatX, this foundation supports automotive OTA, efficient vehicle diagnostics, and large-scale automotive data aggregation.

This isn’t just about faster networks—it’s about building vehicles that improve continuously.

Why automotive Ethernet matters

Older in-vehicle networks, such as CAN and LIN, cannot meet modern demands. High-resolution cameras, ADAS functions, and infotainment all compete for bandwidth. The resources of the cloud can not improve devices that can not be addressed and reached remotely.

Automotive Ethernet solves this with speed, flexibility, and scalability.

High bandwidth: Supports gigabit speeds needed for data-heavy systems.

Standardized addressing: Uses Internet Protocol (IP) methods to address each endpoint, allowing remote resources to access and be accessed by each electronic device on the network 

Standardized protocols to extend IP addressing: Works seamlessly with SOME/IP and DoIP to support service-oriented and diagnostic functions. These protocols can make use of  the IP addressing of devices on the Ethernet network to provide remote access to subordinate devices on non-IP buses. OEMs can keep their legacy ECUs on CAN and LIN, and enable remote access through an Ethernet backbone with SOME/IP and DoIP.

Deterministic performance: With Ethernet TSN, safety-critical data always arrives on time.

This makes Ethernet the natural backbone for updates, diagnostics, and data management in connected vehicles.

Excelfore can provide OEMs the protocol stacks needed to create an Ethernet backbone.  And once it is in place, Excelfore offers the solutions OEMs need to create best-in-class cloud connectivity.

eSync technology and automotive OTA

Connectivity alone is not enough. Updates need orchestration. That’s where eSync technology comes in.

It provides a bi-directional pipeline between the cloud and the devices in the vehicle:

Automotive OTA updates flow down securely to every ECU.

Diagnostics and telemetry flow back up for monitoring and analysis.

For OEMs, this means every ECU in every vehicle in the fleet can receive secure, efficient OTA software improvements —keeping vehicles safer, more capable, and future-ready.

Data aggregation with eDatX

Vehicles generate enormous amounts of data every day. Not all of it is useful. The Excelfore eDatX platform enables intelligent automotive data aggregation, ensuring only selected data is sent to the cloud.

Key advantages:

Efficient data reduction: Reduces data by 99.9% or more

Efficient data selection:  Collects, organizes and sends useful data.

Fleet-wide insight: Helps identify trends across thousands of vehicles.

Scalable design: Works across different domains and vehicle models, for massive numbers of vehicles

This enables OEMs to optimize performance and reliability, reduce operational costs, and design better vehicles.

More innovative vehicle diagnostics with SOVD

Diagnostics are also changing. Traditional methods relied on repair-shop tools. New approaches, such as SOVD (Service-Oriented Vehicle Diagnostics), utilize IP-based remote access instead.

With SOVD, integrated with eSync and supported by automotive Ethernet, service teams can:

Monitor vehicle health in real time.

Run advanced diagnostics remotely.

Integrate seamlessly with cloud platforms, such as AWS IoT Core.

This results in faster problem resolution, reduced downtime, and fewer recalls.

Why this matters for OEMs and fleets

The combination of Ethernet TSN, automotive Ethernet, and Excelfore’s platforms delivers measurable value:

Faster and more reliable automotive OTA updates.

More innovative vehicle diagnostics with remote access and predictive insights.

Actionable intelligence from automotive data aggregation.

Lifecycle competitiveness as vehicles continue to improve after launch.

With eSync technology, eDatX, and SOVD, OEMs gain the tools to reduce costs, unlock new revenue streams, and deliver safer, smarter vehicles.

The bottom line

The future of mobility depends on networks that are fast, reliable, and adaptable. Automotive Ethernet provides the backbone. Ethernet TSN guarantees time-sensitive performance. eSync technology and eDatX bring secure updates and efficient data management. SOVD makes diagnostics smarter. Jointly, these solutions redefine what vehicles can do—not just at launch, but throughout their entire lifecycle.

We support OEMs and mobility providers in making this future a reality—delivering vehicles that stay interconnected, updated, and smart.

[excelfore]

eSync Enabling Features on Demand

For years now, automakers have built optional features into packages of hardware and software that have been installed into the vehicle as a final step in production. A variety of “trim levels” could be offered with different selections of infotainment systems, climate controls, suspension settings and rain sensors and windshield wiper controls, which quickly became integral parts of the vehicle lifestyle embraced by consumers. As time progressed, OEMs standardized and incorporated additional features such as power steering, cruise control, airbags, anti-lock braking systems, and cameras, further enriching the consumer experience.

However, the traditional model of purchasing vehicles with built-in packages of features is becoming outdated. Modern consumers increasingly prefer to make selections tailored to their immediate needs or preferences. This shift in consumer behavior has given rise to a new connected automotive solutions concept known as "Features on Demand," allowing vehicle owners to purchase or subscribe to specific features and activate or deactivate them at will.

What is Feature on Demand?

Feature on Demand allows vehicle owners to choose and activate specific features or upgrades in their vehicles post-purchase, often through software updates or additional hardware installations. This shift from static configurations to dynamic customization empowers consumers with greater control over their vehicle experience. Whether it's upgrading to advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), unlocking performance enhancements, or accessing new entertainment options, Feature on Demand provides flexibility akin to app stores in smartphones.

Key Benefits for Consumers

Personalization: Consumers can tailor their vehicles to suit their preferences and evolving needs without committing to all options upfront.

Cost Efficiency: More cost-effective than purchasing fully loaded trim levels. Consumers can take advantage of lower initial purchase prices, and then add the features they want as they choose and as their budget allows.

Future-Proofing: Ensures vehicles remain relevant and competitive in the market. Vehicle owners can update their vehicles with the latest innovations without having to replace their entire vehicle.

Flexibility: A well constructed Features on Demand platform can not only add new features as desired but also remove old features as the consumers' interests change. Economy packages could be exchanged for performance packages or luxury packages over time.

Advantages for Automakers

Market Differentiation: Makes OEMs very competitive. It appeals to tech-savvy consumers who value customization and innovation, potentially attracting new customer segments.

Revenue Streams: Creates revenue opportunities through subscription models or one-time purchases of premium features. This recurring revenue can contribute to profitability.

Rapid Product Development: Automakers can introduce new features and technologies faster by decoupling them from traditional manufacturing cycles. Software updates enable swift deployment of upgrades.

Continued engagement with customer: Features on Demand fosters an on-going relationship between the OEM and the customer. This continuous engagement enhances brand presence and loyalty, which can lead to higher repeat purchase rates for the same vehicle brand.

Realizing Features on Demand (FoD) using eSync

eSync from Excelfore is a proven software OTA update bi-directional data pipeline that can deliver software updates to remote vehicles - safely, securely, and reliably. By design, eSync is agnostic of the payload - and can deliver not only software updates but also configuration data, commands and control messages to name a few.

Excelfore identified that there are fundamentally two blocks needed to realise FoD, as shown below:

The eSync Server from Excelfore provides all core functional blocks, along with an application programming interface (API) for seamless integration with third-party services such as payment gateways and subscription management systems. Additionally, the eSync Server supports custom approval workflows, enabling OEMs to introduce additional layers of security.

The eSync Client and eSync Agent(s) within the vehicle include the necessary functional blocks to enable (or disable) new configuration updates from the eSync Server. This can involve activating a feature that a user has subscribed to or deactivating a feature due to the non-renewal of the subscription by the vehicle owner.

How It Works?

Over-the-Air Updates: To install or activate (or remove or deactivate) features in software, the vehicle communicates with the eSync Server to receive over-the-air (OTA) updates. This allows for convenient and remote management of the features.

Software Activation: Modern vehicles come equipped with various pre-installed features and functionalities that may not be activated by default. These features could include advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), infotainment options, navigation services, performance enhancements, or comfort features.

Subscription-Based or Pay-Per-Use Model: Vehicle manufacturers or service providers offer these additional features to vehicle owners on a subscription basis or a pay-per-use model. Vehicle owners can choose to activate these features for a specific period or only when they need them.

Flexibility and Personalization: Features on demand provide vehicle owners with greater flexibility and personalization options. They can tailor their vehicle's capabilities to their specific needs or preferences, which is particularly appealing in today's rapidly changing technology landscape.

Monetization: For automakers and service providers, features on demand represent a potential revenue stream. They can offer premium features or services as add-ons, generating additional income beyond the initial vehicle sale.

Enhanced Customer Experience: This approach enhances the overall customer experience by allowing owners to access the latest features and technologies without needing to purchase a new vehicle. It also enables manufacturers to continuously improve and update their products.

Examples of features that could be offered on demand include advanced driver-assistance systems, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, parking assistance, high-quality infotainment services, premium sound systems, and more.

What OEMs should do?

OEMs must install edge devices (with future proof hardware and feature rich software) that collectively offer various features and functions within the vehicle. These features can be controlled and updated via eSync OTA configuration updates, ensuring a flexible and dynamic vehicle feature set. By deploying the eSync OTA software update bi-directional data pipeline, OEMs can integrate with their choice of payment gateways and subscription management systems, defining plans and pricing for features. They can roll out new features to vehicle owners through the cloud-supported notification and reporting module and OEM-driven mobile apps. The seamless integration of all associated modules by eSync ensures a harmonious flow, enabling OEMs to effectively realize Features on Demand.

Conclusion

Overall, features on demand make vehicles more adaptable, customizable, and responsive to the changing needs and preferences of their owners. They also offer new business opportunities for automakers and service providers. eSync technologies from Excelfore plays a crucial role in realizing the Features on Demand functionality for OEMs—securely, safely, and reliably.

[indieethos]

Rat Bastard talks boring music, liberating noise and cutting handmade records -- a III Points profile

Rat Bastard talks boring music, liberating noise and cutting handmade records — a III Points profile

Courtesy Teajay Smith Miami Beach’s Rat Bastard has parlayed obscurity into a sort of personal success. Born Frank Falestra in 1958, in Ellenville, New York, he has been a stalwart of South Florida’s music scene since at least the mid-70s when he was in a punk band called Myrin and the 2 Wotz. Like a lot of punk from that era, it evolved. By the early ‘80s he was the mind behind a post-new wave…

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