S32N series scalable processors provide ultra-integrated automotive function solutions for future software-defined cars

As future cars shift toward software-defined, the functions and features of cars are increasingly set through software code rather than traditional controller hardware. This shift requires us to adopt a completely new design concept.

NXP has released the new S32N series of ultra-high-integration automotive processors, providing a scalable combination of secure and real-time application processing to meet the central computing needs of a wide range of automakers. The S32N processor can not only help realize new use cases and advantages of software-defined cars, but also efficiently create and monetize the collection and analysis of automotive data, simplifying the deployment of automotive functions and services during the life cycle of the car.

The S32N series processors give automakers great flexibility to upgrade and evolve the vehicle's electrical and electronic (E/E) architecture and centralize the vehicle functions that were originally scattered in various hardware controllers into a central computing ECU. The central computing ECU can be either an in-vehicle central controller focused on real-time applications or an in-vehicle central computer with application processing functions.

The S32N processor can safely "ultra-highly integrate" many different automotive functions, and even if these functions have different importance, they can ensure that they do not interfere with each other through hardware isolation and virtualization technology . Thanks to the supporting system components, software tools and pre-integrated software, the S32N processor can accelerate the development of software-defined vehicles (SDV) and effectively reduce the cost and complexity of the vehicle.

S32N series of super-integrated automotive processors enable S32 CoreRide central computing solutions

NXP Helps Transform SDV Development Learn how the S32 CoreRide platform can help automakers improve efficiency and create new value.

The scalable S32N family offers a broad portfolio of secure, real-time application processing cores to address a wide range of central computing needs, from real-time operating systems running deterministic vehicle control to advanced operating systems running vehicle management and OEM applications and services.

All S32N chips integrate advanced hardware security engines, multi-port TSN Ethernet switches and CAN hubs, and some chips also support Ethernet packet acceleration, AI/ML acceleration, and cost-effective cross-processor PCI Express services.

S32N ultra-highly integrated processors are designed to seamlessly scale across core automotive functions

Core technologies for future cars

With the application of S32N processors, automakers can now centrally integrate the core functions of the car in the central computing ECU, which define the essence of the car, from acceleration and handling to steering feel and flexibility and ride comfort. The central computing ECU can be customized to meet the diverse needs of automakers. It can process car information, coordinate various actions, and take the lead in creating new and improved experiences using all core centralized functions, which can also be fine-tuned, updated and enhanced over time.

Downsizing is also environmentally friendly

Reducing the number and weight of automotive components is a huge potential advantage for the automotive industry. In existing cars, electronic components and wiring account for about 40% of the weight. Automakers are working hard to achieve challenging goals of lower or zero carbon emissions, and the S32N processor can super-integrate automotive functions into a single chip of the central computing ECU, helping them design and deliver lighter and more energy-efficient vehicles to achieve these goals.

S32 CoreRide Central Computing Platform

NXP's S32 CoreRide central computing platform was released on March 28, 2024. It is based on the S32N processor and combines the computing power of the S32N, vehicle networking and system power management (such as the FS04 safety power management IC) to accelerate the development of central computing. The platform complies with the automotive industry's most stringent automotive functional safety (ISO26262), information security (ISO/SAE21434) and other reliability standards.

Combined with software from its partner ecosystem, including NXP’s pre-integrated isolated execution environment, NXP will deliver the automotive industry’s first comprehensive SDV platform that scales across the vehicle and fleet to meet the current and future needs of global automakers.

author:

Brian Carlson

Director of Global Product and Solution Marketing, NXP Semiconductors

Brian Carlson is responsible for global marketing of automotive processors and solutions for NXP Semiconductors. He is focused on enabling new innovations and creating new business opportunities in the automotive industry. He has over 30 years of experience in driving leading computing and communications products, and has held positions in product development, technical marketing, product management, and business development. He served as Vice Chairman of the MIPI Alliance Board of Directors, leading mobile charging devices into related markets such as automotive and the Internet of Things. Brian holds a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering from Southern Methodist University.