The CAN bus, or Controller Area Network bus, is a robust vehicle bus standard designed to facilitate communication among various electronic components in automobiles. It allows microcontrollers and devices to communicate with each other without a host computer, making it essential for modern vehicles that rely on numerous sensors and control units. Developed in the 1980s by Bosch, the CAN bus enhances reliability and reduces wiring complexity. It operates on a multi-master principle, meaning that multiple devices can send and receive messages simultaneously. This feature is crucial for real-time applications, such as engine management and safety systems, ensuring efficient data exchange.