The publication of the Draft International Standard (DIS) ISO 26262 addresses the absence of an international standard specific to vehicle safety.Events leading up to the development of the document are outlined. The three main technological drivers for ISO 26262's development are consideredto be the increasing complexity of on-board systems, their increasing number and the increasing levels of software content. With cars containing up to 100 microprocessors and software controlling 85 per cent of a vehicle's functions, the generic standard IEC 61508 was considered inadequate. Afurther requirement was the need to cascade safety standards down to TierOne and Tier Two suppliers. Only discrete safety systems are covered by the DIS despite a need identified by some countries for cooperative infrastructure systems to be included. Organisations involved in the development of the draft are discussed. The draft, which is currently available forcomment from interested parties, should become a final standard by mid 2011.
Abstract