Expanding Automotive Electronic Systems

  • Authors:
  • Gabriel Leen;Donal Heffernan

  • Affiliations:
  • -;-

  • Venue:
  • Computer
  • Year:
  • 2002

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Abstract

The past four decades have witnessed an exponential increase in the number and sophistication of electronic systems in vehicles. In 1977, the value of electronics systems and silicon components-such as transistors, microprocessors, and diodes-in motor vehicles averaged $110, while in 2001 it had increased to $1,800. Today, the cost of electronics in luxury vehicles can amount to more than 23 percent of the total manufacturing cost. Analysts estimate that more than 80 percent of all automotive innovation now stems from electronics. Today's high-end vehicles may have more than 4 kilometers of wiring-compared to 45 meters in vehicles manufactured in 1955. Reducing wiring mass through in-vehicle networks will bring an explosion of new functionality and innovation. Our vehicles will become more like PCs, creating the potential for a host of plug-and-play devices. On average, US commuters spend 9 percent of their day in an automobile. Thus, introducing multimedia and telematics to vehicles will increase productivity and provide entertainment for millions. Further, X-by-wire solutions will make computer diagnostics a standard part of mechanics' work and may even create an electronic chauffeur.