Vehicle architecture needs to change – report

The new generation of automotive consumers expect constant internet connectivity, a fully customisable driving or riding experience, as well as personalised entertainment functionalities.

The consumer’s focal point is no longer the vehicle but the mobility service or mobility experience it provides.

That’s according to a white paper by Israel-based cybertech tier supplier GuardKnox which demonstrates why zonal electronic/electrical (E/E) architecture will be the foundation for the next generation of connected vehicles.

The paper, Zonal Architecture: The Foundation for Next-Generation Vehicles, explains the automotive industry is facing a transition to new propulsion systems focused on zero emissions such as battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell technology (FCEVs).

“The car is transitioning from being a self-propelled wonder to a mobility solution, one that should be personalised, customised and entertaining rather than being a burden of operating and maintenance,” the report says.

It adds this could lead to the customer not owning the vehicle in material form at all, with the role of owner transitioning to user (such as car share, ride hailing and the like).

The white paper also points to the new E/E architecture moving from the controller area network (CAN) bus system to the high-speed ethernet communication network.

The new architecture will include hardware consolidation, wiring optimisation, and a software driven service orientated version that accommodates flexibility, security and agility for the new software-defined vehicles.

“Current vehicle architectures are no longer manageable due to evolving consumer demands and emerging technologies” the report suggests, pointing to Tesla and other Silicon Valley start-up style OEMs as an example of the changing auto industry.

“OEMs must consolidate components and reimagine the way cars are designed to embrace the future of mobility. The emergence of zonal networks makes this possible.”

The white paper says gone are the days of decades-long contractual obligations to produce and supply components to specific geographical locations.

Rather than the physical production of parts and spares for delivery, instant software-based upgrading is now available, with the possibility of a software module being replaced by a cheaper, better version.

“Upgrading individual components is much more affordable than replacing the entire vehicle,” the white paper adds.

“This will boost the value of used yet upgraded cars and further push sales into this market space.”

The report adds feature support provided by a simple premium software upgrade can be sold as a service similar to a cellular plan.

“This subscription-based model will convert the drivers of vehicles to subscribers of services, create new revenue streams and remain intact for the entire vehicle life-cycle.”