The UK electronic systems trade association, NMI, has launched the Automotive Electronic Systems Innovation Network (AESIN).
“Vehicle design has changed dramatically in recent times and cars are no longer simple mechanical machines; they are now dependent on electronic systems that make them greener, safer and more comfortable,” said Derek Boyd, CEO of NMI. “A further revolution is underway, not only with a shift towards electric vehicles but also with greater deployment of wireless communications for infotainment, vehicle to vehicle and infrastructure connectivity.
“The UK has a strong base of vehicle, motor-sport and electronic-engineering capability and this new network provides a specialist home for electronic systems innovation and supply-chain development. There’s already momentum with key players and we’d like to invite more partners to come and join the network.”
Freescale’s Steve Wainright also stated: “The shift to designing cars that work with a user’s phone presents a significant opportunity for manufacturers; but, as driver distraction causes 25pc of accidents in the US and 16pc of all traffic fatalities at an estimated costs of $230bn per year, it can’t just be enabling chatting or emailing in the car. The collaboration between electronic firms and car manufacturers is paramount to define the next human machine interfaces and graphics solutions that allow safe connectivity.”
“One of the key agendas of AESIN is to take a step away from what’s currently done and determine the true best practice,” said Tim Strafford from McLaren Electronic Systems. “The constraints and competition in F1, Indycar and NASCAR have made for an excellent environment for innovation.”
The creation of the network is supported by car manufacturers and supply chain partners including Jaguar LandRover, Lotus, Nissan, McLaren Electronic Systems, Freescale, Infineon, Renesas and Visteon.
