MATTHIAS KAESTNER, corporate vice president of Microchip Technology’s automotive, data center and networking business units
Microchip Technology’s perspective on the automotive industry highlights the significant shift towards Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs) and the increasing reliance on open-standard in-vehicle networks. As car manufacturers evolve, the adoption of Ethernet, Automotive SerDes Alliance (ASA), and PCIe® are pivotal to the industry’s ability to make technological leaps.
Let’s take a deeper exploration of these concepts:
Transition to Ethernet-based Zonal Architectures
Zonal architecture involves grouping vehicle functions into zones, allowing for centralized control and reduced wiring complexity. This structure enhances data transfer speed and reduces the weight and cost associated with traditional wiring harnesses.
Open-Standard In-Vehicle Networks
Ethernet facilitates high-speed data communication, making it ideal for handling the large data volumes required by modern vehicles. It supports Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) and infotainment applications by functioning as the networking backbone in a zonal architecture.
Automotive SerDes Alliance (ASA) focuses on high-speed serial communication for automotive applications, essential for connecting sensors including cameras to central compute modules with minimal latency.
Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe) serves as a high-speed interface within a central compute module, linking various processing components and high speed memory, enabling real-time processing of large volumes of data.
Benefits of a Common Data Framework
There are many benefits of a common data framework, including security and efficiency, ease of integration and a cohesive driving experience. Standardized protocols enhance the vehicle’s cybersecurity posture by reducing vulnerabilities associated with proprietary systems. Improved efficiency in data handling reduces latency and ensures timely communication between components.
A unified communication protocol simplifies the incorporation of new technologies and features, while reducing the software complexity allowing manufacturers to respond quickly to market demands. This adaptability fosters innovation, enabling carmakers to offer the latest advancements without overhauling the entire vehicle architecture. By ensuring seamless integration of features, a common data framework enhances user experience, providing drivers with reliable, intuitive interfaces and functionalities. This integration also supports future advancements in autonomous driving and smart vehicle technologies.
Summary
Microchip’s insights underscore the transformative potential of adopting open-standard in-vehicle networks in the automotive sector. As vehicles become increasingly software-defined, the reliance on Ethernet, ASA, and PCIe will play a crucial role in shaping the future of automotive design, security, and functionality. The push towards standardization not only facilitates technological advancements but also promises a more cohesive and integrated driving experience for consumers.
Click here to read the 2025 Executive Viewpoints in Semiconductor Digest
