Latest Automotive Updates: Collision Control Consortium, Aeva, Mazda, and ROHM in Focus
Connected vehicles are taking a significant leap forward with the integration of 5G and Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) technologies. This real-time communication between vehicles, infrastructure, and cloud systems is enhancing safety through vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) collision avoidance and advanced telematics for over-the-air (OTA) updates [2][4]. Companies like the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) are at the forefront, leveraging these advancements for smarter vehicle ecosystems, offering AI-driven claims management and connected car data analytics.
One such company, Aeva, is leading the way in LiDAR technology. Their innovative Frequency-Modulated Continuous-Wave (FMCW) LiDAR with 4D sensing combines distance, velocity, and reflectivity to create precise 3D maps essential for Level 4 and 5 autonomous driving [3]. This technology enhances multi-sensor data fusion and real-time AI processing within autonomous vehicles, enabling safer navigation and object detection in complex environments [1][3]. Aeva's LiDAR technology is now being integrated into Sensys Gatso's portable speed enforcement solution as a secondary speed verification tool.
Mazda is also advancing in the realm of connected and autonomous technology. By embedding sensors and connectivity modules into their vehicles, they are improving driver assistance and digital key functionality. Their digital key solutions allow secure, smartphone-based access and control tied to personalized driver profiles, enhancing convenience and cybersecurity [1][4].
Meanwhile, ROHM is pioneering the use of Gallium Nitride (GaN) power semiconductors in EV powertrains and fast chargers. GaN devices offer higher efficiency, smaller size, and better heat dissipation compared to traditional silicon semiconductors, which improves battery management systems and powertrain controllers—key for faster charging and longer EV range [1].
These advancements are converging to realise smarter, safer, and more efficient electric and autonomous vehicles. The CCC's expanded Digital Key Certification Program now includes Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technologies, improving security by evaluating the digital key applet on a device's Secure Element, protecting consumer data, and enabling cross-platform key sharing between iOS and Android [5].
The partnership between Aeva and Sensys Gatso underscores the growing demand for Aeva's LiDAR solutions in the industrial market. Sensys Gatso Australia has chosen Aeva as its exclusive LiDAR supplier for secondary speed detection in its new mobile speed enforcement products, providing customers with a multi-modal speed enforcement solution [6].
Mazda and ROHM have also expanded their partnership to develop automotive components using GaN power semiconductors. Since 2022, both companies have collaborated on silicon carbide (SiC) inverters for electric drive units [7]. This collaboration aims to leverage GaN's efficiency to enhance electric vehicle performance. The project targets a demonstration model by FY2025, with practical implementation planned for FY2027 [8].
These latest advancements involving CCC, Aeva, Mazda, and ROHM in connected cars, digital key solutions, LiDAR, and GaN power semiconductors for electric vehicles reflect cutting-edge integration of AI, 5G connectivity, and new semiconductor materials to boost autonomous capabilities, vehicle security, and efficiency.
[1] Mazda and ROHM Collaborate on GaN Power Semiconductors for Electric Vehicles
[2] Connected Cars: The Future of Vehicle Safety and Efficiency
[3] Aeva's 4D LiDAR Technology for Autonomous Vehicles
[4] Mazda Digital Key Solutions for Enhanced Convenience and Cybersecurity
[5] CCC Expands Digital Key Certification Program to Include Bluetooth LE and UWB
[6] Aeva's LiDAR Technology Integrated into Sensys Gatso's Mobile Speed Enforcement Products
[7] Mazda and ROHM Collaborate on SiC Inverters for Electric Drive Units
[8] Mazda and ROHM Partnership Targets Demonstration Model by FY2025
The collaboration between Aeva and Sensys Gatso in LiDAR technology highlights the growth of Aeva's solutions in the industrial market, particularly for applications in the transportation sector. Additionally, the partnership between Mazda and ROHM in GaN power semiconductors signifies a significant step in the automotive industry, aiming to improve efficiency and performance in electric vehicles.
