That is nearing prices I would start considering other systems than Megasquirt for projects.
I agree, but the purpose of that was to show that MS is pushing forward with current technologies and we're here spinning our wheels.
CAN is fundamental, can't use CAN for dashboards, can't use CAN for vehicle communications, can't use CAN for expansion, still no traction control, still no rolling anti-lag, still not fail safes, still no Flex-fuel. The list goes on and on and that's just software, as you said the hardware is a completely different monster to tackle.
I mean, look at the trend. People but aftermarket ECU's for features and ease of install. I'm not saying MS is perfect, but at least they're moving towards the future and while the prices are increasing, people pay because they like the platform. VEMS can do the same, they will continue have a loyal following if they have an ECU that is up to date. V3.x is no where near up to date anymore, and it's like that because someone decided to take months to made an S65 CAN bus project, for what? For one car?
As much as I want VEMS to get up to date, it cannot happen on the current platform. VEMS 4 or 5 or VEMS Pro or something needs to be well into the works I hope.