White Paper: Automotive
Software Defined Vehicles: How companion MCUs can improve performance and safety
SPONSORED BY: ![]()
Unlock the full potential of Software Defined Vehicles with our latest white paper. Discover how automotive-specific, low-power companion microcontrollers address performance, safety, and security challenges in emerging E/E architectures. Learn how these robust devices can improve the vehicle experience and explore the benefits of integrating a companion MCU into your design. Download now and stay ahead of the curve in automotive innovation.
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Overview
The white paper discusses the evolving landscape of automotive electronic and electrical (E/E) architecture, emphasizing the critical role of companion microcontrollers (MCUs) in the transition to Software Defined Vehicles. As automotive systems shift from distributed and domain-based architectures to centralized compute models, the need for efficient management of complex functions—such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), infotainment, and motion control—has become paramount.
Companion microcontrollers operate alongside sophisticated System-on-Chips (SoCs) to handle low-level, real-time tasks that the SoCs may struggle with due to performance, safety, and security challenges. These MCUs, also known as Vehicle Interconnect Processors (VIPs), Digital Control Units (DCUs), or Automotive Controllers (ACs), enhance real-time performance and functional safety, making them essential in modern automotive designs.
The paper highlights the various functions of companion MCUs, including system management, real-time control, and the enforcement of security protocols. Many companion MCUs integrate Hardware Security Modules (HSMs) to support encryption and decryption, ensuring compliance with standards such as Vehicle Intrusion Protected Applications (EVITA) and ISO 21434. Key features include cryptographic algorithms, authenticated boot processes, and real-time internal clocks, all contributing to improved vehicle security.
Furthermore, the document outlines placement considerations for companion MCUs within the vehicle architecture, demonstrating their necessity in both centralized cockpit compute systems and broader vehicle operations. By effectively managing critical tasks, companion microcontrollers not only enhance the performance and safety of automotive systems but also pave the way for future innovations in vehicle technology.
In conclusion, the white paper underscores the importance of companion microcontrollers in addressing the challenges posed by advanced automotive architectures, ultimately improving the overall vehicle experience and ensuring a secure, efficient, and reliable operation.