The Evolution of Car Electronics Design

Over the past few years, automobile electronics have expanded in terms of quantity, capability, and complexity. The Tesla car is undoubtedly the technology's flagship. But even for those of us who can't buy a Tesla, this technology is being used in more and more mid-range and even entry-level new cars. This article will cover how this technology has been included into the Tesla as well as the design environment it represents and how it has been used.

Technology & functionality

Even if there is growing talk about the broad adoption of self-driving cars in the upcoming years, there is already a high level of capability in today's automotive technology. It goes without saying that there are obstacles with this technology in terms of what is required for product development. The following are particular attributes of car electronics:

Signal integrity requirements for automotive electronics are the same as for any other sophisticated, high-performing electronic goods.

What makes the automobile environment special:

The electronics must function for 20 years in a temperature range of -60° to +135°.

The electronics must withstand years of vibration and shock.

Cost is usually the driving factor.

Nearly as critical as cost, reliability may soon overtake it as the most crucial element.

Modern autos require networks with a reasonable amount of bandwidth.

From stereo to 70GHz radar (bumper radars) and everything in between, car electronics must function across a wide spectrum of frequencies, including GPS, Bluetooth, and wireless Ethernet. As an illustration, Tesla constantly communicates