As vehicles morph from machines into devices, companies such as Qualcomm Technologies are developing digital analogs that mirror the terms of older vehicle systems.
Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Digital Chassis is one example. It comprises multiple cloud-connected platforms that manage telematics and connectivity, digital driver and infotainment screens, driver assistance and autonomy features.
The Snapdragon Digital Chassis is designed to help connected and intelligent vehicles keep all the information they collect under control. Automakers can customize each component to meet the needs of each model that uses the system, and those components are also continually upgradable, Qualcomm said.
The Snapdragon Digital Chassis will appear in some upcoming high-end electric vehicles, including the Cadillac Lyriq and various Mercedes-Benz models. Mercedes will use Snapdragon components in future infotainment systems, including to control the telematics connections and the artificial intelligence that hides behind the in-car virtual assistance software to offer better voice interactions. The Lyriq will use a Snapdragon 5G automotive modem for connectivity and the Snapdragon Ride Platform to better sense the car’s environment. Snapdragon’s modular architecture also allows future EVs to stay updated.