C-ITS Stacks
The cube:radio API gives you direct access to your cube's V2X link layer—but that's just the foundation. To build a complete C-ITS station, you need the protocols that sit on top: GeoNetworking for geographic routing, BTP for transport, DCC for congestion control, and Security for message signing and validation.
A C-ITS stack is a complete suite of these protocols, designed specifically for cooperative intelligent transport systems. In Europe, ETSI's ITS technical committee standardizes these protocols to ensure interoperability across all ITS stations. Want the full picture? Check out ETSI TS 103 836-3 for the official protocol architecture.
The good news? You don't have to build this from scratch. Whether you want open-source flexibility, production-ready deployment, or maximum customization, there's a path for you. Let's find the perfect stack for your project.
Choose Your Stack
Vanetza – The Open Source Stack
Best for: C++ developers, researchers, and teams needing full protocol control
Vanetza is the famous standard open-source C-ITS implementation. Sponsored by nfiniity since 2024, it delivers production-ready implementations of GeoNetworking, BTP, DCC, and Security — all the core ETSI protocols you need. Pre-installed on every cube:evk with the socktap demo application, you can start transmitting CAMs and DENMs within minutes, or build your own sophisticated ITS station from its battle-tested C++ library.
→ Perfect for low-level control and custom protocol extensions
cube:its – Production-Ready C-ITS Ecosystem
Best for: Production deployments, ROS 2 developers, and teams needing a complete, deployment-ready solution
Transform your cube into a production-grade, ETSI-compliant ITS station with our cube:its container. Built on Vanetza's battle-tested core and extended with extensive facility layer implementations, cube:its is a versatile C-ITS ecosystem ready for real-world deployment. Get instant access to V2X communication through familiar ROS 2 topics and services, including pre-built facility services for CAM, DENM, CPM, and more. Includes dev containers, remote deployment tools, and everything you need to go from prototype to production.
→ Perfect for production deployments and ETSI-compliant solutions
Custom Stack – Maximum Flexibility
Best for: Teams with existing C-ITS stacks or custom protocol requirements
Already have a C-ITS stack or need something completely custom? The cube platform welcomes your solution with open arms. Our cube:radio, cube:ubx, and cube:time libraries provide everything you need: V2X frame transmission, GNSS positioning, and ITS time synchronization. Check out our "tiny stack" example as a minimal starting point, or integrate your commercial stack directly.
→ Perfect for proprietary implementations and existing codebases
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Vanetza | cube:its | Custom Stack |
|---|---|---|---|
| Language | C++ | ROS 2/Python/C++ | Your Choice |
| Learning Curve | Moderate | Low (if ROS 2 familiar) | Depends |
| Protocol Control | Full access | High-level API | Full access |
| Pre-built Apps | socktap demo | Complete ROS 2 nodes | DIY |
| Integration Effort | Low | Low | Variable |
| Best Use Case | Protocol research | Deployment | Custom requirements |
Ready to build your ITS station? Pick your path and dive in! 🚗💨