Software Engineers Entering Vehicle Systems

Case Study 3: Aditya Patel #

Previous Role: Enterprise Software Developer at Infosys
Current Role: EV Software Architect at Ather Energy & DIYguru Alumnus

Transformation Journey #

Aditya Patel was thriving as a backend software engineer at Infosys, developing enterprise solutions for banking clients. His coding expertise was unquestionable, but he felt disconnected from real-world impact.

When he came across the growing EV revolution in India, especially Ather’s rise in connected scooters, Aditya realized his programming background could play a vital role in next-generation mobility. Yet, he had zero knowledge of vehicle systems, embedded controls, or automotive safety standards.

In 2021, he decided to reskill with DIYguru’s Certification in Electric & Hybrid Vehicle Embedded Systems, marking the start of his pivot from enterprise IT to mobility tech innovation.

Initial Challenges #

1. Domain Knowledge Gap – Transitioning from apps and cloud to CAN bus, embedded C, and AUTOSAR systems.
2. System Complexity – Understanding how battery, motor, inverter, and vehicle controllers communicate in real time.
3. Interdisciplinary Nature – Unlike software-only projects, EV systems demanded hardware-software integration.
4. Industry Acceptance – Convincing recruiters he could move from IT services to hardcore automotive product engineering.

Skill Development Path with DIYguru #

1. Automotive Software Architecture
   • Gained expertise in AUTOSAR adaptive platform and EV-specific ECU programming.
   • Simulated real-world vehicle control units.
     
2. Embedded Systems Training
   • Hands-on labs with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and TI controllers.
   • Designed a working motor control algorithm during the DIYguru capstone project.
     
3. Connected Vehicle Technologies
   • Exposure to telematics, IoT frameworks, and over-the-air (OTA) update systems.
   • Worked on a project simulating Ather-like live vehicle dashboards.
     
4. Cybersecurity in EVs
   • Specialized training on data encryption, intrusion detection, and functional safety (ISO 26262).
     
5. Industry Immersion
   • Attended DIYguru’s masterclass with Tata Tech engineers.
   • Built a portfolio that blended his IT background with mobility solutions.
     

Key Transformation Strategies #

• Leveraging Prior Skills: Used his strong foundation in coding to quickly adapt to embedded development.
• Hands-On Projects: Built prototypes that bridged his resume from software-only to software-hardware integration.
• Networking via DIYguru Alumni: Connected with EV engineers at Ola Electric and Ather through the alumni community.
• Continuous Upgrade: Kept learning beyond the program — AI in mobility, OTA systems, and edge computing.

Career Impact #

• 50% Salary Increase after joining Ather Energy as an EV Software Architect.
• Innovation Role: Part of the team that developed smart OTA update modules for Ather’s scooters.
• Cross-Functional Authority: Now works with design, electrical, and battery teams, driving end-to-end system integration.
• Global Opportunities: Shortlisted for an international fellowship in Connected Mobility Systems in Europe.

Narrative Takeaway #

Aditya’s story reflects how India’s IT workforce can seamlessly transition into EV innovation when guided by structured training.

As a DIYguru alumnus, he represents the new breed of EV professionals — not confined by traditional automotive education, but empowered by tech-driven adaptability and interdisciplinary skills.His journey proves that coding the future of mobility is no longer limited to startups or Silicon Valley — it’s happening in Bengaluru, powered by EV architects like him.

FAQs #

1. Can a software engineer transition to the electric vehicle industry?
   Yes, with proper training in embedded systems, CAN communication, and EV architecture, software engineers can play critical roles in EV development.
2. What skills are required for a software engineer to work on electric vehicles?
   Key skills include embedded C programming, AUTOSAR, CAN bus communication, battery management systems (BMS), telematics, and functional safety standards like ISO 26262.
3. Do software engineers need to learn hardware for EV roles?
   Yes, a basic understanding of hardware-software integration is essential since EV systems combine both mechanical and electronic components.
4. Which EV companies hire software engineers in India?
   Leading companies include Ather Energy, Ola Electric, Tata Motors, Mahindra Electric, and startups like Ultraviolette, Simple Energy, and Euler Motors.
5. What are the main job roles for software engineers in EVs?
   Common roles include EV Software Architect, Embedded Systems Developer, Telematics Engineer, Battery Management System Developer, and Cybersecurity Specialist.
6. Do EV software engineers work on AI and IoT systems?
   Yes, AI, IoT, and cloud platforms play a major role in connected vehicles, predictive maintenance, and OTA (Over-the-Air) updates.
7. What is AUTOSAR, and why is it important for EV engineers?
   AUTOSAR (Automotive Open System Architecture) is a global standard for automotive software development, crucial for designing scalable, safe EV systems.
8. Is cybersecurity important in electric vehicles?
   Absolutely! EVs are connected devices, making cybersecurity and data protection essential for preventing hacks and ensuring functional safety.
9. What certifications help software engineers enter the EV domain?
   Certifications in Embedded Systems, AUTOSAR, Functional Safety (ISO 26262), and specialized EV programs like DIYguru’s Electric Vehicle Certification are highly valuable.
10. How much salary hike can software engineers expect after transitioning to EV roles?
    On average, professionals see a 30-50% salary increase after upskilling for EV roles due to the industry’s high demand and talent gap.