Hack A Truck – Embedded Systems Hackathon

Software engineering has never been more exciting—or more powerful—than it is today. With modern development tools we jump between languages, frameworks, and architectures: Python for rapid prototyping, C++ for performance, C# for systems integration, and countless libraries that abstract away the hardware beneath.

But underneath every layer of abstraction, every framework, and every cloud service – there are still bits and bytes.

And sometimes those bits and bytes move 40 tons of electric Volvo truck.

Working in teams of 2–3 engineers, you will design and implement functionality that controls truck behavior and systems—starting from the most fundamental level: a C or C++ program interacting with an embedded system.

• No web frameworks.
• No JavaScript frontends.
• Just code, hardware, and a truck.

What you need

• A team of 2–3 people
  (maximum 3 due to the limited seating inside the truck cabin)
• Ability to program in C or C++ (or the willingness to learn fast
• Two days of your life and a hacker mindset

What you will get

• Hands-on experience with large-scale embedded software systems
• Practical training on how to work with and operate a Volvo truck platform at Stora Holm
• The chance to build something few software engineers ever get to touch
• And most importantly: a CV line that will immediately start conversations

Schedule

May 18 (13:00–17:00)

ReVeRe Lab – Introduction session

• System overview
• Programming environment
• Embedded control basics

May 25 (Full day)

Stora Holm Test Track – Hackathon Day

• Team hacking session
• Testing your code on the truck
• Demo and showcase

Who can participate

Students from Chalmers University of Technology and the University of Gothenburg:

• Bachelor students year 2 or higher
• Master students
• PhD students are also welcome
• Prerequisites: Programming experience in C, C++, or embedded systems

Registration

Don't wait to register your interest to participate now as seats are very limited! Please note that 18 May and 25 May are mandatory for all team members.