C h a p t e r 1 | T h e Ev o l u t i o n o f N e w A u t o m o t i v e A r c h i t e c t u r e s
sophisticated computing equipment
within the vehicle is a form of edge
computing and minimizes latency. Given
the volume of information that must
be collected and processed, cars will
transform into mobile data centers.
Introducing Zonal Architecture
Zonal architecture is a new concept in
the manufacture of vehicle electronics.
In contrast to existing architecture, in
which systems are grouped together into
domains depending on their function,
zonal architecture divides the vehicle into
zones based on the physical location of
systems. Each zone is equipped with a
controller that manages local systems,
regardless of their purpose. Because the
zonal controllers are physically close to
the devices they control, cable lengths
can remain short.
The zonal controllers are connected to
the central cluster, which provides high-
speed computing power for the vehicle.
The resulting vehicle electronics take on
the form of a computer network rather
than an automotive harness. Interzonal
communication occurs over small,
high-speed networking cables, which
greatly reduce the quantity and size of
the harnesses that must be installed
in the vehicle. Networking technology
accommodates the data demanded by
new onboard systems, attaining speeds of
10 gigabits per second and greater.
In addition, many designers are
embracing the switch from 12V to 48V
electrical systems in automotive design
to meet the increasing power demands
of modern vehicles. With more advanced
electronics, safety features, and EV
components, 12V systems can struggle
to deliver the necessary power efficiently.
A 48V system offers several benefits,
including more efficient power delivery
using smaller and lighter cables, while
enabling mild hybrid systems for better
energy recovery and reduced emissions.
Traditional vehicle architectures
have a highly complex and
centralized wiring system that can be
cumbersome and inefficient. Zonal
architecture simplifies the wiring by
decentralizing the ECUs and grouping
functionalities into zones. This
reduces complexity, lowers weight,
and improves the efficiency and
scalability of the electrical system."
Shrikant Patil
Sr. Software and Network Architect,
Complete Vehicle, Iveco Group
10
Zonal Architecture: Delivering New Standards of Connectivity for Automotive and Beyond
