At CES 2025, Intel introduced a groundbreaking expansion of its automotive product lineup, positioning itself at the forefront of the electric and software-defined vehicle (SDV) revolution. The highlight of this unveiling is Intel’s Adaptive Control Unit (ACU U310), a next-generation processing unit engineered to optimize EV powertrains and zonal controller applications.
Transforming the Automotive Landscape with a Whole-Vehicle Platform
Intel’s latest whole-vehicle platform integrates high-performance compute, discrete graphics, AI-driven enhancements, and power management solutions, aiming to streamline automotive manufacturing and improve cost efficiency. With automakers facing significant challenges in cost and scalability, Intel’s approach simplifies vehicle architecture, making software-defined vehicles more accessible and profitable.
Introducing the Adaptive Control Unit (ACU U310)
The ACU U310 is a cutting-edge processor designed to consolidate multiple real-time, safety-critical, and cybersecure functions into a single chip. Traditional vehicle architectures rely on fragmented controllers, leading to inefficiencies. Intel’s new X-in-1 approach eliminates these bottlenecks by integrating multiple microcontroller workloads into a single zonal MCU. This dual-brain architecture ensures deterministic processing, enhanced security, and optimized energy management.
Revolutionizing EV Efficiency and Performance
Intel’s ACU U310 offers significant benefits for electric vehicle energy management. By optimizing high-voltage and control frequencies based on driver behavior and road conditions, the ACU can reclaim up to 40% of powertrain system energy losses, resulting in a 3% to 5% efficiency boost during Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) evaluations. This advancement translates into longer driving ranges, improved energy efficiency, and reduced battery costs.
Intel’s Strategic Automotive Partnerships
Intel has already secured key automotive partnerships to implement its Adaptive Control technology:
- Stellantis Motorsports will integrate the ACU for next-generation inverter control, optimizing energy recovery during braking for improved Formula E racing performance.
- Karma Automotive has announced support for Intel’s ACU, unveiling an Intel co-branded inverter with Optimal Pulse Pattern control algorithms. This innovation enables features like Torque Ripple Reduction and Range Boost, offering greater flexibility in EV driving profiles.
AI and Next-Gen Graphics for Immersive In-Vehicle Experiences
Building on its AI-driven SDV system-on-chip (SoC) technology, Intel announced its second-generation Intel® Arc™ B-series Graphics for Automotive. Slated for production by late 2025, this high-performance compute solution will enhance in-vehicle AI workloads, next-generation HMI systems, and even AAA gaming experiences within vehicles.
Cloud-Based Automotive Innovation with AWS
Intel and Amazon Web Services (AWS) have introduced the Intel Automotive Virtual Development Environment (VDE), a revolutionary cloud-to-car solution. This integration enables engineers to seamlessly switch between virtual and physical hardware setups, accelerating software-defined vehicle development and reducing R&D costs.
Intel’s Competitive Edge in the EV & SDV Market
With its whole-vehicle platform, AI-powered optimizations, and strategic industry partnerships, Intel is driving the future of electric and software-defined vehicles. The introduction of the ACU U310 and automotive VDE positions Intel as a leader in next-gen mobility solutions, empowering automakers to build more efficient, cost-effective, and high-performance vehicles.
Stay tuned as Intel continues to redefine the automotive industry with its innovative AI-driven solutions and next-gen semiconductor technology.
