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by kube-system 2366 days ago
> How do software flaws in cars kill you exactly?

Braking systems have been partially modulated by software for decades, i.e. ABS, TCS, ESC.

Additionally, other software controlled systems can induce mechanical issues. For example, in the case of the Toyota unintended acceleration debacle, an engine at WOT typically does not produce vacuum. However, power-assisted brakes almost universally are vacuum-powered. So, if the software-controlled throttle gets stuck wide open, you lose power-assist to the brakes.

https://users.ece.cmu.edu/~koopman/pubs/koopman14_toyota_ua_...

1 comments

Power assist not working in the breaks doesn't really equate to loosing the breaks entirely. You can still use them to slow down unless the break wire or hydraulics are literally cut.
And successful control of the vehicle depends on the vehicle's specific characteristics and the physical ability and awareness of the driver. The point being: it has killed people.