QNX claims software enhances safety and dependability of WeRide autonomous vehicle technology
In a strategic move, QNX, a division of Canadian tech company BlackBerry, has integrated its safety operating system software into WeRide's Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) for L2-plus-plus (L2++) semi-autonomous driving capabilities. This collaboration is set to revolutionise the autonomous driving landscape, particularly in smart cities.
WeRide's ADAS, named WePilot, is designed for L2-plus-plus passenger vehicles and aims to provide a reliable, safe, and secure foundation for defensive driving, agile lane-changing, and 360-degree obstacle avoidance, thereby supporting navigation-assisted driving anytime, anywhere, and in any weather conditions.
The QNX OS for Safety integrates multi-modality sensor fusion and supports map-free technology solutions, optimised by WeRide’s full-stack deep learning algorithms. This integration ensures compliance with stringent functional safety and quality standards such as ISO/SAE 21434, ISO 26262, and ASPICE CL2, critical for automotive-grade software reliability and safety.
By providing this robust and certified software platform, QNX aids WeRide in delivering a Level 2-plus-plus system—where the driver must remain alert but the system can take on more driving tasks for longer durations compared to standard Level 2 ADAS. This positions WeRide to mature its semi-autonomous technology with fewer regulatory and liability challenges than full Level 3 autonomy.
In addition to WeRide, QNX software is also being employed by other automotive companies, including BMW, Bosch, Continental, Dongfeng Motor, Geely, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Volkswagen, Volvo, and more. The software is credited for helping these companies bring to market ADAS, digital cockpits, infotainment systems, and domain controllers.
Recently, QNX software has been integrated into Leapmotor's new B10 electric SUV's intelligent digital cockpit and autonomous drive domain controllers. WeRide had also previously announced a collaboration with QNX software and German mega supplier Bosch, for the ADAS in the Chery EXCEED Sterra ES and ET models.
As advanced driver assistance capabilities like automated parking, highway pilot, and traffic jam assist become more common, particularly in China, delivering compelling convenience and intelligent features to drivers has become a new battleground for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). QNX's software aids automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance, contributing to this ongoing battle.
BlackBerry projects $250 million to $270 million (C$343 million to C$374 million) in revenue for its fiscal year ending Feb. 28, 2026. This revenue expansion, as shown by QNX's first-quarter revenue which expanded 8% year-on-year to $57.5 million (C$78.9 million), indicates a promising future for the company in the autonomous driving sector.
The collaboration between WeRide and QNX has integrated QNX's safety operating system software into WeRide's ADAS, enabling the development of L2-plus-plus semi-autonomous driving capabilities. This integration, optimized by WeRide’s full-stack deep learning algorithms, ensures compliance with stringent functional safety and quality standards.
QNX software, utilized by various automotive companies such as BMW, Bosch, and Volvo, facilitates the deployment of ADAS, digital cockpits, infotainment systems, and domain controllers, contributing to the ongoing battle among Original Equipment Manufacturers for delivering advanced driver assistance features.
