How companion microcontrollers optimize central compute SoCs in automotive systems

The automotive E/E architecture for passenger vehicles are undergoing a transformation due to a new target: Software Defined Vehicle. This is a consequence of the shift from distributed and domain-based to mixed domain-zone architectures and centralized compute. Central Electronic Control Units (ECUs) are powered by sophisticated System-on-Chips (SoCs) that were originally developed for consumer industries. These emerging architectures centralize and combine increasingly complex and interoperable functions, including Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), infotainment, and motion control.

This whitepaper explores how automotive-specific, low-power companion microcontrollers (MCUs) cost-effectively address these challenges by managing real-time control, safety mechanisms, and other crucial vehicle functions.