Developing the Open Source Car

At a panel at Convergence 2008, a Microsoft sponsored event, BMW announced that it had developed a Linux based operating system to run some of their entertainment components and called on other automakers and OEM's to work together to make open source the future. Several companies, like Honda and Ford, currently use Windows based systems. BMW said it wants to sell 200,000 open source cars in the next 5-7 years.

From Automotive News Europe (ANE):

"We were convinced we had to develop an open platform that would allow for open software since the speed in the infotainment and entertainment industry requires us to be on a much faster track," said Gunter Reichart, BMW vice president of driver assistance, body electronics and electrical networks. "We invite other OEMs to join with us, to exchange with us. We are open to exchange with others."

An open-source platform fosters innovation by allowing software vendors and Linux users to share ideas, fix problems and contribute code. The result is a platform that offers plug-and-play compatibility for infotainment products from any vendor.

Thanks to my friend Matt for the link. Competition for operating system dominance extends well beyond conventional desktop computers and these new battlegrounds are among the most interesting.