In a groundbreaking move, NIO has introduced SkyOS, described as China’s inaugural operating system tailored exclusively for smart electric vehicles. The unveiling took place during the NIO IN 2023 innovation day event in Shanghai, where the company showcased its commitment to pioneering automotive technology.
SkyOS stands as NIO’s comprehensive domain operating system, encompassing a broad spectrum of functionalities, ranging from vehicle control to intelligent driving, cockpit management, mobile connectivity, and more. The development aligns with NIO’s “1+4+N” technology framework, signifying its ambition to revolutionize the EV landscape.
The “1” component of this framework is SkyOS-H, a hypervisor that extends support for multiple operating systems within the vehicle’s cockpit and autonomous driving systems. It serves as a secure foundation, ensuring robust operational integrity.
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The “4” in the framework represents four distinct subsystems within SkyOS:
- SkyOS-M: This real-time operating system, built on a microkernel, boasts high levels of security and reliability.
- SkyOS-L: A lightweight, real-time operating system that prioritizes reliability.
- SkyOS-R: Engineered for complex and rich application scenarios, this high-performance operating system promises exceptional functionality.
- SkyOS-C: A customized operating system rooted in Android, catering to the specific needs of NIO’s EVs.
The “N” in the technology cluster signifies the middleware integrated into SkyOS, designed to support various aspects, including AI frameworks, sensor management, power optimization, diagnostics, and network connectivity.
SkyOS, as NIO’s foundational vehicle operating system, facilitates seamless integration of a diverse array of devices, enabling efficient collaboration across the platform.
NIO has previously made strides in integrating elements of SkyOS into its vehicle platforms. The first-generation NT 1.0 platform saw the mass production of some SkyOS middleware, while the second-generation NT 2.0 platform achieved mass production of SkyOS-L. The company has expressed its intention to roll out a full-featured SkyOS on the next-generation NT 3.0-based platform.
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To align with this innovative stride, NIO has christened the software associated with SkyOS as the “Sky series,” underlining its commitment to a cohesive technology ecosystem.
In a dual announcement, NIO also unveiled its inaugural smartphone, the NIO Phone, featuring SkyUI, a customized Android-based mobile operating system. This strategic move reinforces NIO’s vision of integrating smart technology not only into their vehicles but also into the personal devices of their users.
NIO’s foray into developing its proprietary operating system and smartphone signifies a significant leap in the electrification of the automotive industry, solidifying its position as a trailblazer in the field of smart electric vehicles.
