The popular V-model development process, which is characterized by high efficiency and excellent performance, has been widely applied in controller development process. The rapid prototyping acts as a part of the V-model process. The control strategy can be realized and validated conveniently. The cost and development risk can be reduced simultaneously. In this paper, a gasoline engine controller was developed based on MotoTron rapid prototyping platform. First, the control system frame was established under MotoHawk toolkit and the basic software and system I/Os were configured. Then the engine control strategy was developed with Matlab/Simulink, including electronic throttle control, air control, fuel injection control, ignition control and accessory control. Finally, an engine start test was conducted on bench to validate the engine control functions. The test results show that the engine starts quickly and reliably. The engine state transitions are smooth. The air-fuel ratio of each engine start stage is well controlled. The fundamental functions of gasoline engine controller have been realized.