NXP and Quanta have partnered on deterministic vehicle networking aimed at implementing zone-based architectures for software-defined vehicles (SDVs). The two companies plan to combine in-vehicle computing and networking into a single verification platform to reduce the burden of repetitive real-time communication and integrated verification during the SDV development process.

NXP Semiconductors announced on the 15th that it is collaborating with Taiwanese system manufacturer Quanta to implement a deterministic zone networking solution specialized for next-generation vehicle architectures. This collaboration focuses on ensuring predictable latency and low jitter for in-vehicle networks during the SDV transition process.

This collaboration addresses the challenge of consistently controlling in-vehicle data flow during the SDV development process. As autonomous driving, high-performance computing, and OTA updates expand, network latency or timing errors are acting as direct variables affecting vehicle performance and safety.

The solution is based on NXP's S32 automotive processing platform and TrustMotion MotionWise middleware. It is a structure that combines MotionWise's deterministic scheduling and communication technologies to implement predictable end-to-end latency across the ECU and vehicle network.

In conventional vehicle development, network configuration and integration verification were concentrated in the later stages, leading to a higher risk of development delays or errors. The two companies plan to reduce this burden through an integrated workflow that includes automatic topology discovery, schedule generation, and deployment capabilities.

The platform includes the S32 automotive processor, SJA1110 switch-based TSN networking, CAN and LIN connectivity technologies, and multi-PMIC power management technologies. It is characterized by combining automotive-grade computing, networking, and system orchestration into a single verification platform.

Applications include latency-sensitive vehicle functions such as Ethernet-based audio, HPC up-integration, real-time RCP control, and smart energy networking. OEMs can extend the zone-based architecture to multiple vehicle programs.

This collaboration was driven by the emergence of zone-based architecture as a core infrastructure for SDV implementation. NXP and Quanta are also pursuing integration with the NXP CoreRide zone reference system, and deterministic zone networking solutions are currently being offered to OEMs and ecosystem partners.