What HighTec EDV-Systeme GmbH does

HighTec EDV-Systeme GmbH, founded in 1982 and headquartered in Saarbrücken, Germany, is a privately-held developer of safety-certified software development tools for embedded microcontrollers. The company positions itself as the world's largest commercial vendor of open-source compilers, with its C/C++ and Rust development platforms built on LLVM and GCC toolchains and pre-qualified for ISO 26262 ASIL D (automotive) and IEC 61508 SIL 3 (industrial) functional safety standards. The company holds ISO 9001 (since 2008) and ISO 27001:2022 certifications, and employs 51-100 staff across offices in Germany, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Hungary, China, and the United States.

The product portfolio spans the PXROS-HR safety-certified real-time operating system, MCAL (Microcontroller Abstortion Layer) libraries for AUTOSAR integration, Qkit qualification kits that package certification evidence for customer audits, and the ONNX2C tool for deploying AI/ML models onto automotive MCUs. The company serves over 100 enterprise customers, including Audi, BMW, Daimler, Volkswagen, Toyota, Honda, Bosch, Continental, and Siemens, and holds channel designations as Infineon Preferred Design House and STMicroelectronics Preferred Compiler Partner. Leadership includes CTO Mario Cupelli and authorized representative Vera Strothmann; no external investors are disclosed.

HighTec monetizes primarily through enterprise licensing of its compiler and RTOS platforms, supported by qualification services and recurring maintenance, sold both directly to OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers and indirectly through semiconductor-vendor channels. The business is self-funded and profitable by indication, with no public funding rounds or revenue disclosures.

Name

HighTec EDV-Systeme GmbH

Legal name

HighTec EDV-Systeme GmbH

Website

https://hightec-rt.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

1982

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

51–100 employees

Short description

Privately-held German company founded 1982 that develops ISO 26262 ASIL D and IEC 61508 SIL 3 certified LLVM/GCC-based C/C++ and Rust compilers, the PXROS-HR RTOS, and safety qualification kits for automotive and industrial embedded microcontrollers, serving 100-plus OEMs and Tier-1s.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Embedded Software Development Tools

NAICS

Custom Computer Programming Services (541511)

SIC

Services-Prepackaged Software (7372)

akta.pro primary industry

Embedded Software & Firmware Tools (Compilers, Debug, RTOS tooling) (HDAHAFAE)

akta.pro secondary industries

EDA Software Platforms (Digital Implementation, Verification & Signoff) (HDAHAFAA), Software Engineering & Application Development Training (Languages, Frameworks, Testing) (BPAEANAI)

Keywords

• Embedded compiler tools
• Functional safety software
• Automotive embedded development
• Real-time operating systems
• AUTOSAR toolchain

Headquarters

HQ city

Saarbrücken

HQ country

Germany

HQ region

Europe

Offices5 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Software

Cost components

Personnel, Technology or R&D, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Software Licenses - C/C++ and Rust Compilers: Core revenue from licensing compiler toolchains for TriCore, AURIX, ARM, PowerPC, RISC-V, and other architectures. License models include standalone single-user, floating licenses (single-site or multi-site with roaming), build-server licenses, and frozen/proven-in-use versions for compatibility with validated third-party products.
2. PXROS-HR RTOS Licensing: Production licenses for PXROS-HR real-time operating system based on volume or buy-out model. RTOS is essential for safety-critical multi-core automotive and industrial applications.
3. MCAL and Safety Libraries: Resale of AUTOSAR MCAL (Microcontroller Abstraction Layer) libraries, SafeTlib, and SafeTPack from Infineon and STMicroelectronics. Development and production licenses from semiconductor vendors.
4. Professional Services - Training and Consulting: On-site training courses and integration workshops for Development Platform, MCAL, SafeTlib, and PXROS-HR. Consultancy services for design-in, AUTOSAR implementation, ISO 26262 process support, and custom training tailored to specific customer projects.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion3 records

Distribution channels6 records

Marketing channels6 records

Core offering

HighTec EDV-Systeme GmbH develops and licenses safety-qualified C/C++ and Rust compiler suites built on LLVM and GCC open-source technology for automotive and industrial microcontrollers (TriCore/AURIX, ARM, PowerPC, RISC-V, GTM/MCS). Its portfolio also includes the PXROS-HR multi-core real-time operating system certified to ISO 26262 ASIL D / IEC 61508 SIL 3, TÜV-certified tool and library qualification kits (Qkit), AUTOSAR MCAL resale, and supporting training and consulting services.

Product overview

HighTec EDV-Systeme GmbH offers a comprehensive embedded software development platform centered on LLVM and GCC-based C/C++ and Rust compiler suites for automotive and industrial microcontrollers. The core product portfolio consists of the C/C++ Development Platform supporting TriCore/AURIX, ARM, RISC-V, Power Architecture, and GTM/MCS architectures, complemented by the Rust Development Platform for memory-safe hybrid development. Supporting products include PPU MetaWare for parallel processing units, Qkit qualification kits for ISO 26262 ASIL D tool and library certification, and the PXROS-HR multi-core real-time OS certified for functional safety. The company also distributes AUTOSAR MCAL libraries, SafeTLib, and SafeTPack for Infineon and STMicroelectronics platforms. Promotion bundles including Drive Core AI, Drive Core AUTOSAR (Rust), and Drive Core RISC-V VP provide pre-integrated evaluation packages combining compilers, middleware, and development tools.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• PXROS-HR: ISO 26262 ASIL D / IEC 61508 SIL 3 certified multi-core real-time operating system (RTOS)
• HighTec Development Platform
• HighTec Rust Development Platform
• Qkit
• Library Qkit
• Drive Core

Products and services

• C/C++ Development Platform LLVM and GCC-based C/C++ compiler suite for TriCore/AURIX, ARM, RISC-V, Power Architecture, and GTM/MCS microcontroller architectures, qualified to ISO 26262 ASIL D, for automotive and industrial embedded software developers.
• Rust Development Platform ISO 26262 ASIL D qualified Rust compiler built on LLVM technology for AURIX and ARM Stellar microcontrollers, enabling memory-safe hybrid development combining Rust with legacy C/C++ code for automotive embedded systems.
• AURIX TC4x Safety Solutions
• PPU MetaWare Development Kit
• Qkit ISO 26262 Tool Qualification Kit Tool qualification kit providing the evidence required to use HighTec compilers in safety applications up to ISO 26262 ASIL D, including Tool Classification Report, Safety Manual, Qualification Plan, and Qualification Report under a TÜV-certified methodology.
• Library Qkit ISO 26262 Library Qualification Kit Qualification kit for C/C++ libraries per ISO 26262 chapter 8-12, enabling ASIL D qualification with 100% MC/DC coverage requirements including equivalence tests, negative tests, and requirements-based tests.
• PXROS-HR Real-time Operating System Object-oriented multi-core RTOS with MPU protection, certified for ISO 26262 ASIL D and IEC 61508 SIL 3, providing safe inter-process communication, task encapsulation via capsules, and dynamic object management for TriCore/AURIX safety-critical applications.
• MCAL and More Resale and integration of AUTOSAR MCAL libraries, SafeTLib/SafeTPack safety libraries, and security software for Infineon AURIX and STMicroelectronics platforms, with worldwide configuration, integration, and training services.
• MCAL Evaluation Package 3-month free evaluation bundle for the Infineon TC4x BASIC MCAL Package including EB tresos configuration tool, HighTec LLVM safety-certified TriCore C/C++ compiler, IDE with debugger, and ready-to-go example projects.
• Drive Core AI (PPU) Bundle Promotion bundle for AURIX TC4x model-based AI development with Simulink and MathWorks Embedded Coder HSP, including the HighTec LLVM C/C++ compiler for TC3x/TC4x, MetaWare Compiler for PPU, and ready-to-use Simulink example projects with AI examples.
• Drive Core AUTOSAR (Rust) Bundle Complete bundle for developing AUTOSAR SW Components in Rust, including EB tresos Studio, the HighTec ASIL D qualified AURIX TC4x C/C++ compiler v8.1.2, Rust compiler v1.0, TC4x MCAL package, flash tool, and CAN example project.
• Drive Core RISC-V VP Bundle Evaluation bundle for Infineon's first automotive RISC-V prototype, including Synopsys VDK, HighTec RISC-V C/C++ compiler, Lauterbach TRACE32 debugger, low-level drivers, FreeRTOS, and demo code examples.

Quantifiable outcome

• Leading benchmark results for TriCore code generation
• +2 more outcomes

Named customers20 records

Segments3 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration4 records

AI capability3 records

Feature10 records

Partnerships

21 partnerships are on record, tiered core, flagship and minor.

• SiFivecoreTechnology or Integration · 7 May 2026Strategic partnership to accelerate safety-ready RISC-V software development for automotive and industrial systems. Combines HighTec's safety-qualified LLVM-based toolchains for Rust and C/C++ with SiFive's safety-focused RISC-V processor IP. Enables software developers to adopt RISC-V with integrated approach to safety, security, performance, and scalable development.
• QuintauriscoreTechnology or Integration · 28 October 2025Joint efforts to advance RISC-V ecosystem for automotive applications. Quintauris provides RT-Europa Platform for safety-critical automotive RISC-V applications, with HighTec providing qualified compiler tools.
• Infineon TechnologiesflagshipStrategic or Co-development PartnerLong-term cooperation and support agreement for TriCore, AURIX, AURIX 2G, HSM, and GTM compilers. HighTec is Infineon-assigned Preferred Design House. Distributes Infineon's MCAL, SafeTlib, and SHE+ libraries. PXROS-HR is leading RTOS for TriCore/AURIX.
• STMicroelectronicscoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerPreferred compiler partner status. C/C++ compiler for Power Architecture delivers support for SPC5xx series microcontrollers. Sales and support partner for AUTOSAR libraries from STMicroelectronics.
• NXP SemiconductorscoreTechnology or IntegrationC/C++ compiler for Power Architecture supports Qorivva MPC series industrial and automotive microcontrollers. New C/C++ compiler for ARM provides support for Cortex-R and Cortex-A based microcontrollers.
• Renesas ElectronicscoreTechnology or IntegrationC compiler for GTM/MCS delivers support for RH850 on-board GTM/MCS core. New C/C++ compiler for ARM provides support for Cortex-R and Cortex-A based microcontrollers. MCAL with HighTec compiler support.
• SynopsyscoreTechnology or IntegrationSynopsys ARC MetaWare Development Kit for AURIX distributed by HighTec. MetaWare compiler based on LLVM technology for PPU with seamless interoperability with HighTec compiler solutions. Collaboration on RISC-V virtual prototype (VDK).
• Bosch Automotive ElectronicscoreTechnology or IntegrationCollaboration to develop C compiler for Bosch GTM-IP MCS timer module. GTM/MCS core present in various standard microcontrollers including Infineon AURIX, NXP Qorriva, STMicroelectronics SPC5xx, and Renesas RH850.
• Vector InformatikcoreTechnology or IntegrationLeading manufacturer of CAN to Automotive Ethernet software tools. AUTOSAR stack integration with HighTec compilers. EB tresos Rust support enables Rust SWCs on AUTOSAR Classic.
• Elektrobit (EB)coreTechnology or IntegrationGlobal supplier of embedded automotive software. EB tresos ECU runtime software available for HighTec C compiler for TriCore and AURIX. EB tresos AutoCore Rust RTE extension enables Rust SWCs on AUTOSAR Classic.
• ETAScoreTechnology or IntegrationRTA-OSEK real-time operating system works with HighTec C compiler for TriCore and AURIX. CARS and Mage projects enabling AUTOSAR Classic development with Rust.
• MathWorkscoreTechnology or IntegrationEmbedded Coder Support Package for Infineon AURIX TC4x and TC3x enables efficient compilation, linking, and binary generation. Model-based development workflow integration.
• LauterbachcoreTechnology or IntegrationFull debug support for HighTec C/C++ compilers for TriCore, AURIX, AURIX 2G, Power Architecture, ARM, and GTM. TRACE32 debug and trace tools. Collaboration on RISC-V virtual prototype debugging.
• Validas AGcoreTechnology or IntegrationSpecializes in tool, library, and basic software qualification per safety standards. Provides TÜV-certified methodology for HighTec's Qkit tool qualification kit.
• ITK Engineering (Bosch subsidiary)coreImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerTechnical consulting and implementation services for automotive and industrial companies adopting Rust. Combines HighTec's safety-qualified compilers with ITK's engineering services for hybrid Rust/C++ development.
• HitexcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized distributor in UK and North America (USA, Canada, Mexico). Provides in-circuit emulators, monitors, debuggers, and evaluation boards. Joint Go-to-market for embedded development tools.
• MicroConsultminorImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerTraining, coaching, and consulting for embedded systems development. Conducts training courses with HighTec C/C++ compilers for TriCore, PowerPC, and GTM.
• New EagleminorImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerEngineering solutions for electronic systems and control software. Raptor eMBD software platform for automotive, transportation, industrial, military, aerospace markets.
• BluewindcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorOfficial distributor and Rust ecosystem partner. Over 10 years partnership. Developing Rust peripheral drivers for Infineon AURIX TC37x. Part of AURIX Rust Startup Ecosystem.
• DoulosminorImplementation/ SI/ Consulting PartnerGlobal training provider for engineers. Rust Fundamentals course and Rust for Embedded Firmware course covering Rust with C/C++ integration using HighTec tools.
• SOAFEEcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerHighTec joined SOAFEE (Scalable Open Architecture for Embedded Edge) to drive safe and secure software-defined vehicles. Collaboration on automotive software architecture standards.

Scale indicators4 records

Recent moves7 records

Expansion highlights4 records

Broad incumbents

• Synopsys: Synopsys distributes the ARC MetaWare Development Kit for AURIX through HighTec but also competes broadly via its EDA portfolio, ARC processor IP, and virtual prototype (VDK) technology that targets the same automotive software development workflows as HighTec's tools.
• ETAS (Bosch): ETAS is a Bosch subsidiary providing automotive embedded software tools, middleware, and development environments. It overlaps with HighTec in AUTOSAR tooling and embedded compiler integrations, leveraging deep ties to Bosch as both a customer and competitor.
• Vector Informatik: Vector provides AUTOSAR stacks, CAN/Ethernet tools, and embedded development environments for automotive OEMs and tier-1s. It is both a HighTec partner (AUTOSAR Classic integration) and a broader competitor in automotive embedded tooling portfolios.
• Elektrobit (Continental): Elektrobit is an automotive software specialist offering AUTOSAR stacks (EB tresos), embedded security, and connected vehicle solutions. It partners with HighTec on AUTOSAR Classic + Rust integration while competing as a broader embedded software platform provider to the same OEMs.

Emerging players

• Lauterbach: Lauterbach provides TRACE32 debug and trace tools that integrate with HighTec's compilers for TriCore, AURIX, ARM, and Power Architecture. While not a direct compiler competitor, it operates in the same automotive embedded development toolchain ecosystem and collaborates on RISC-V virtual prototype debugging.

Direct peers

• IAR Systems: IAR is the closest direct competitor to HighTec, offering certified C/C++ and Rust compiler toolchains (IAR Embedded Workbench) for the same automotive MCU families including ARM, RISC-V, and TriCore/AURIX. Both companies compete for the same safety-certified embedded developer seat with overlapping ISO 26262 positioning.
• Wind River Systems: Wind River offers the VxWorks RTOS and embedded development tools serving automotive, aerospace, and industrial safety-critical markets. It directly competes with HighTec's PXROS-HR RTOS and certified compiler offerings in safety-critical embedded applications.
• TASKING (Altium): TASKING provides certified C/C++ compilers for TriCore/AURIX and other automotive MCUs, historically a major competitor to HighTec in the AURIX compiler market. Both target safety-critical automotive applications with ISO 26262-qualified toolchains.
• Lynx Software Technologies: Lynx provides safety-certified RTOS products (LynxOS-178) and secure virtualization for aerospace, defense, and automotive applications. It is comparable to HighTec's PXROS-HR as a safety-certified multi-core RTOS provider, though with a different architectural approach.
• Green Hills Software: Green Hills provides the INTEGRITY RTOS and MULTI IDE with safety-certified compilers (ISO 26262 ASIL D, IEC 61508 SIL 3) for automotive and industrial MCUs. It is a direct competitor in the safety-certified embedded toolchain market, particularly in powertrain and ADAS.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat6 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/hightec-edv-systeme-gmbh

Compliance5 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles2 records

Subsidiaries1 record

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about HighTec EDV-Systeme GmbH