New S32N processor for E/E architectures in vehicles

E/E Architecture New processor platform for central computers

2024-03-28 From Sven Prawitz | Translated by AI 2 min Reading Time

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NXP presents a processor for E/E architectures with a central computer. It can run applications in isolation and offers software from a partner network.

NXP has announced a new multi-core processor platform that allows functions from various control units to be consolidated centrally.(Image: NXP) — NXP has announced a new multi-core processor platform that allows functions from various control units to be consolidated centrally.
(Image: NXP)

NXP Semiconductors has developed a multi-core processor specifically designed for central computers in new vehicle architectures. The new S32N processor is part of the "S32-CoreRide platform". This bundles computing, network and energy management functions as well as ready-to-use software from the company's partner ecosystem.

The new portfolio eliminates inconsistencies between software and architecture. Thus, functions from traditional multi-ECUs can be shifted to zone or centralized computers. The following companies provide software for this:

Accenture ESR Labs,
Archer Mind,
Blackberry QNX,
Elektrobit,
ETAS,
Green Hills Software,
Sonatus,
Synopsys,
TTTech Auto,
Valeo,
Vector Informatik and
Wind River

16 cores and variable resource allocation

The S32 vehicle computer has 16 cores, from ARM, which can be combined in any way. This allows safety-critical functions to be processed separately from comfort functions. Further, it is possible to create redundancy by using two cores for a function. As the supplier informs, resources can be dynamically assigned. Thus, the performance of applications does not decrease as they are developed over time.

According to NXP, this concept can consolidate the tasks of various control units on a central computer. This helps automakers and Tier-1 suppliers shorten their innovation cycles, says Henri Ardevol. The head of Automotive Embedded Systems is convinced: "With our platform, automakers can radically change their approach to developing software-defined vehicles and take a much faster, open development path."

Series production from 2027

The scalable S32N family was developed by NXP specifically for the highest levels of functional safety in the automotive sector. For example, real-time and application processor cores can be combined. All S32N components integrate a hardware security engine and a TSN Ethernet switch with multiple ports, as well as a CAN hub. Some also support Ethernet packet acceleration, AI/ML acceleration, and cost-effective intercomputer PCI Express services. The S32 system also meets the ASIL-D requirements of the ISO-26262 standard.

NXP is working with automotive manufacturers and Tier-1 suppliers on the first offers for the S32 platform. The first series-produced vehicles are expected to enter operation in 2027, according to the semiconductor company.

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