STMicroelectronics – global leader in semiconductors – and HighTec EDV-Systeme GmbH, a pioneer in compiler technology, are joining forces to accelerate the development of safety-critical automotive systems. Their collaboration integrates HighTec’s ISO 26262 ASIL D-qualified Rust compiler with ST’s Stellar microcontrollers (MCUs)—the first 28nm MCUs certified to the same stringent safety standard—bringing a comprehensive safety solution to the automotive industry.

Advancing Software-Defined Vehicle Safety

The automotive industry is rapidly shifting towards software-defined vehicle architectures, replacing traditional hardwired electronic control units (ECUs) with flexible, programmable systems. Rust, known for its reliability, safety, and performance, is gaining traction in automotive applications.

Through this partnership, ST and HighTec empower automakers with a robust development ecosystem that ensures compliance with the highest safety and security standards while reducing time-to-market.

“The transition to software-defined vehicles is reshaping how automakers differentiate their products and enhance vehicle capabilities over time. Our collaboration with HighTec ensures that manufacturers can leverage Rust’s safety benefits while maintaining industry-leading functional safety standards”

Davide Santo, Automotive Microcontroller Business Unit Director at STMicroelectronics

Unparalleled Functional Safety with Rust

HighTec has developed the industry’s first Rust compiler qualified to ISO 26262 ASIL D, providing automakers with a cutting-edge toolchain that seamlessly integrates with ST’s Stellar MCUs.

Built on Arm® Cortex®-R52+ cores, these ones are – according to Mario Cupelli, CTO at HighTec EDV-Systeme – the first 28nm microcontrollers to achieve ISO 26262 ASIL D certification. And pairing them with the safety-certified Rust compiler provides a fully optimized, high-integrity solution for developing the next generation of automotive software.

Accelerating Innovation in Automotive Software Development

As automakers strive to shorten development cycles while meeting evolving regulatory requirements, the integration of HighTec’s Rust compiler with ST’s Stellar MCU family offers significant advantages:

• Enhanced Safety & Security: Rust’s inherent memory safety features mitigate common vulnerabilities, ensuring robust protection for critical automotive applications.
• Seamless Integration: Developers can combine Rust with existing C/C++ codebases, preserving previous investments while transitioning to modern software architectures.
• Optimized Performance: Rust delivers execution speeds and memory efficiency comparable to C/C++, making it ideal for mission-critical automotive systems.
• Future-Proof Compliance: The solution adheres to ISO 21434 cybersecurity guidelines and UN155 regulatory standards, aligning with the latest automotive safety requirements.

A Vision for Safer, Smarter Vehicles

This collaboration underscores ST and HighTec’s shared commitment to advancing automotive functional safety. By integrating Rust’s modern programming capabilities with Stellar’s high-performance microcontrollers, developers gain access to a powerful toolchain that streamlines the creation of secure, safety-critical automotive applications.

For more information on HighTec’s ISO 26262 ASIL D-qualified Rust and C/C++ compilers for ST’s Stellar automotive MCUs, click on the link below