CQI-34 Software Assurance Approval Process (SAAP)

Introduction to the new guideline

The AIAG CQI-34 SAAP (Software Assurance and Approval Process) addresses the increasing importance of embedded software in the automotive industry, particularly in the context of electric vehicles. It provides a structured approach for the approval and change management of software products that must function both independently and as part of a system.

Relevant standards for embedded software:

The increasing use of software in on-highway applications is leading to a focus on various international and customer-specific standards, including:

ASPICE (Automotive SPICE): A process model for evaluating and improving software development processes in the automotive industry.
ISO 26262 (functional safety): A standard for the safety requirements of electrical and electronic systems in vehicles.
ISO 21434 (cybersecurity): A guideline for ensuring the cybersecurity of vehicles and their embedded software.
Customer-specific requirements (CSR): Supplementary standards and requirements defined by OEMs and suppliers.

Challenges in software approval:

1. Rapid industry development:

The shift to electric vehicles is fundamentally changing quality standards and requires a new approach to software development and approval.

2. Different approval paths:

Software in road vehicles is assessed and approved differently from mechanical components, which poses particular challenges for the quality discipline.

3. Integration and functionality:

The guideline takes into account how software must function both independently and embedded in a system in order to ensure the intended functionality.

4. Consideration of development processes:

The approval and change management of software is not only based on the conformity of the end product, but also on the development processes used.

Approval processes and their diversity:

The multitude of new standards brings with it additional requirements for product approval, including:

Uniform consideration of functional safety, cybersecurity and process quality.
Different approval variants and criteria that OEMs and suppliers introduce according to their specific needs.
Flexible approaches to meet the dynamic requirements of the industry.

Source: Gregg Alling, Dana Inc./ Member of AIAG work group

More information available to download in English

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Source: Gregg Alling, Dana Inc./ Member of AIAG work group

The AIAG CQI-34 SAAP creates a framework that meets the complex requirements of automotive software. It combines proven development standards with a comprehensive approval approach to ensure quality, safety and functionality in the long term.

The new CQI-34 Software Assurance Approval Process (SAAP) will be published in January 2025.

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