Experts from the world of C++ and compilers held an exciting panel discussion on “Balancing Abstraction and Performance in Modern C++”!

As systems grow increasingly complex, developers are shifting from describing how to execute processes to specifying what needs to be done—relying more on compiler optimizations. However, abstraction can introduce pitfalls, and careful design is required to maintain both performance and safety.

In this panel discussion, Woven by Toyota and industry experts shared strategies for writing efficient and expressive C++ code, even in low-level domains such as embedded systems, safety-critical software, library design, and compiler internals.

Panel Discussion

Key topics discussed included:

• When abstraction enhances code—and when it becomes a liability

• Tips on using tools like Clang-Tidy, Compiler Explorer, and various sanitizers

• Practical advice on migrating from C or Python to C++

• The evolving role of modern C++ in embedded and real-time systems

Panelists:

• Jason Turner (C++ Weekly, ISO C++, author of C++ Best Practices)

• Adam Panzica (Arene SDK, ISO C++, Woven by Toyota)

• Charles Hussong (Foundational Libraries, ISO C++, Woven by Toyota)

• Jessica Paquette (LLVM contributor, Compiler Engineer, Woven by Toyota)

Moderator:

• Nick Smith (Woven by Toyota)

We hope the insights shared in this discussion prove valuable for anyone involved in designing, teaching, or implementing modern C++, whether maintaining kernels or building safety-first platforms.