This year’s Eclipse SDV Hackathon is less than a month away, and the registration deadline (Nov. 6) is approaching fast. We sat down with Naci Dai and Andreas (“Andy”) Riexinger, the dynamic duo leading the charge as Hack MC and Hack MC Assistant for this year’s hackathon. Both Naci and Andy bring a wealth of experience and a shared passion for open source innovation in the Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) space, making them the perfect team to guide this event. Naci, an entrepreneur and educator in autonomous driving and SDV, and Andy, a seasoned software architect and embedded specialist at Bosch, are eager to share their unique insights and experiences on what makes this hackathon unique, how participants can familiarise themselves with SDV technologies, and what technologies they’re most excited about. Let's dive into their motivations, perspectives, and what makes this hackathon a standout opportunity for advancing the SDV ecosystem.
What motivated you to take on the role of Hack MC/Hack MC Assistant for this hackathon?
Naci: I am really passionate about open source software and its transformative potential in the automotive industry. I'm genuinely excited to contribute to this hackathon. I see it as a fantastic opportunity to support and empower people who are willing to push the boundaries of SDV innovation. I'm eager to support my colleagues and experts from SDV projects who will coach the teams, facilitate collaboration, and help create an environment where interesting new ideas can flourish.
Andy: That is part of my personality and my personal interest in SDV and automotive.
I like to bring people together, especially in the automotive context. I attended one of the first SDV hackathons as a “hacker” and it was a great experience. I would like to share this experience with other “hackers”. It is also my personal concern to advance SDV, especially in the current difficult times.
What role do you see this hackathon playing in advancing the Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) ecosystem?
Naci: SDV hackathons are for learning “what SDV can do for you” as well as being playgrounds to try ideas that can be a catalyst for SDV advancement. By bringing together diverse minds, fostering collaboration, and encouraging experimentation, we can contribute back to the development of innovative solutions in SDV. I believe the ideas and code that emerge from this event will showcase the possibilities of SDVs and inspire further involvement of new community members.
Andy: In my opinion, a hackathon is always a very good way to focus on new ideas, which you can’t do in everyday’s business life. At hackathons, I’ve experienced how new ideas emerge that I hadn’t previously thought of, although I have worked in that area every day.
I am convinced that this will also happen here, which is why the hackathon will serve as an incubator and catalyst for new things and it represents progress for SDV.
I'm keen to see projects that explore the potential of AI and machine learning in SDVs, as these technologies have the power to revolutionise both the developer and driving experience.
What kind of projects or challenges are you most excited to see teams tackle?
Naci: Oh, we have challenges from all corners of SDV. They range from improving software integration and orchestration to capturing data, and enhancing vehicle connectivity, or creating more user-friendly and intuitive interfaces. I'm also keen to see projects that explore the potential of AI and machine learning in SDVs, as these technologies have the power to revolutionise both the developer and driving experience.
Andy: This question is a bit unfair, because I am excited about every challenge and its outcome! But to pick one, I am really curious about the ThreadX challenge as it may lay a foundation for the basic SDV software stack.
What do you think makes this event unique compared to other hackathons in the SDV or automotive software space?
Naci: Eclipse SDV is a code-first initiative with projects that solve real problems in automotive. I believe this hackathon stands out due to its strong focus on collaboration between these projects and by making the people behind these technologies available to our “hackers” – true to open source knowledge sharing. Also, for the first time in this year's hackathon, we will provide prior training to our hackers so that they are familiar with these technologies and spend more of their time innovating. The involvement of industry experts and coaches will provide valuable guidance and insights, further enhancing the learning experience.
Andy: The hackathons are evolving to combine more and more existing technologies in the SDV area. I am really curious to see where we end up. And of course, we are also learning from each hackathon, so every hackathon will be better than the previous one and makes every hackathon unique.
I believe this hackathon stands out due to its strong focus on collaboration between these projects and by making the people behind these technologies available to our “hackers”.
How can attendees and teams effectively collaborate and network during the event, especially if they are new to SDV?
Naci: I recommend actively engaging with the coaches and the larger SDV community on the floor or online, asking questions, and seeking out mentors or experienced participants. I encourage attendees to leverage online collaboration tools and platforms such as GitHub and Slack to connect with other participants and build relationships that extend beyond the hackathon. Remember, everyone is here to learn and contribute, so embrace the opportunity to connect and collaborate!
Andy: I think the best thing will be to search for a kind of buddy who is experienced and can help to dive into the world of SDV and automotive. There are also hack coaches available, who will help not only with technologies, but also with connecting them. Last but not least, I am also there and happy to help…
Ready to drive the future of vehicles? Register now for the 2024 Eclipse SDV Hackathon from 20-22 November in Karlsruhe, Germany!
