STMicroelectronics (ST), a global semiconductor leader, has accelerated future automotive innovation with scalable memory solutions.

ST announced on the 22nd that it has launched the Stellar automotive microcontroller (MCU) featuring innovative xMemory technology.

It is a key solution that supports software-defined vehicle (SDV) development and electric vehicle (EV) platform advancement, providing expandable memory capabilities to enable continuous updates of vehicle software and smooth implementation of AI applications.

With this new product, ST is providing a next-generation computing platform designed to support more functions for automakers, helping them reduce development costs and streamline their supply chains. Stellar MCUs are used in the Stellar P6 MCU, designed for new drivetrains and architectures for electric vehicles, and are scheduled for mass production in the second half of 2025.

The automotive industry is seeing a surge in memory demand due to technological advancements such as AI and machine learning applications and OTA (Over-the-Air) updates. However, selecting a high-spec MCU to implement new functions increases costs, and conversely, selecting an MCU with insufficient capacity may require additional MCU verification processes, which may lead to development complexity and delays.

ST’s xMemory technology was developed to address these issues by building on existing Phase-Change Memory (PCM) technology, and provides the ability to expand memory not only during the development phase but also after the vehicle is released. This allows automakers to continuously improve performance and add features through software updates without changing the hardware.

Key automotive industry officials expressed their expectations regarding ST's new technology.

“Stellar MCUs with xMemory are an innovative memory solution that enables high-performance, adaptable microcontrollers for automotive applications,” said Axel Aue, Vice President at Bosch.

Additionally, “by choosing scalable MCUs, automakers can avoid expensive hardware redesigns and accelerate time to market,” said Anshel Sag, principal analyst at Moor Insights & Strategy. “Continuous feature enhancements on the same platform via OTA updates will also help reduce maintenance costs.”

With this launch, ST is leading technological innovation in the digital transformation and electrification of the automotive industry. Stellar MCUs with xMemory help OEMs extend product lifecycles, reduce development costs, and shorten certification and validation times.

“To meet the ever-increasing memory requirements, we have developed an innovative memory technology with the smallest bit cell size for the automotive market,” said Luca Rodeschini, Group Vice President, STMicroelectronics. “Stellar MCUs with xMemory will help automakers develop software-defined vehicles more efficiently and enable continuous product innovation.”