Changes in Automotive Technology: Focus on SDV
The Future of the Vehicle Electrical System in the Age of the Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV)
Technological advancements, design challenges, and solutions for embedded systems.
The automotive industry is undergoing a profound transformation: With the emergence of the Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV), software is increasingly becoming the focal point of vehicle development. Unlike traditional vehicle architectures, in which electronic control units (ECUs) operate in a function-specific manner and are largely isolated from one another, SDVs enable a centralized, flexible, and continuously updatable software platform. Functions such as autonomous driving, over-the-air updates, and personalized user experiences are thus not only feasible but are increasingly becoming the standard.
However, this transformation places high demands on vehicle architecture—particularly on the vehicle electrical system, which serves as the backbone of all electronic systems. The previous structure, based on decentralized ECUs, is increasingly reaching its limits.
New SDV concepts and vehicle electrical system architectures require more powerful, scalable, and centralized solutions. These must be capable of handling the ever-growing volumes of data while simultaneously meeting strict requirements for safety and real-time processing.
The transition to zonal architectures, high-performance computers (HPCs), and software-controlled communication protocols therefore marks not only a technological advancement but also forms the necessary foundation for the future viability of modern vehicles.
The following section examines the key requirements for the vehicle electrical system of the next generation of vehicles in the context of the SDV—and highlights why its redesign goes far beyond technical advancements: It is a decisive lever for the innovation capacity and long-term competitiveness of the automotive industry.
The automotive industry is undergoing a profound transformation: With the emergence of the Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV), software is increasingly becoming the focal point of vehicle development. Unlike traditional vehicle architectures, in which electronic control units (ECUs) operate in a function-specific manner and are largely isolated from one another, SDVs enable a centralized, flexible, and continuously updatable software platform. Functions such as autonomous driving, over-the-air updates, and personalized user experiences are thus not only feasible but are increasingly becoming the standard.
However, this transformation places high demands on vehicle architecture—particularly on the vehicle electrical system, which serves as the backbone of all electronic systems. The previous structure, based on decentralized ECUs, is increasingly reaching its limits.
New SDV concepts and vehicle electrical system architectures require more powerful, scalable, and centralized solutions. These must be capable of handling the ever-growing volumes of data while simultaneously meeting strict requirements for safety and real-time processing.
The transition to zonal architectures, high-performance computers (HPCs), and software-controlled communication protocols therefore marks not only a technological advancement but also forms the necessary foundation for the future viability of modern vehicles.
The following section examines the key requirements for the vehicle electrical system of the next generation of vehicles in the context of the SDV—and highlights why its redesign goes far beyond technical advancements: It is a decisive lever for the innovation capacity and long-term competitiveness of the automotive industry.
High-Performance Computers (HPCs) as the backbone of autonomous driving
As autonomous driving advances, the complexity of vehicle architecture is increasing significantly—particularly in the area of the vehicle electrical system. Challenges are increasingly centered on aspects such as performance, safety, reliability, and flexibility. The enormous volume of sensor and environmental data, along with the need for seamless real-time processing, calls for new solutions at the system level.
A key technology in this context is the use of high-performance computers (HPCs) in the vehicle. These powerful platforms handle the central task of real-time data processing—for example, from camera, radar, and LIDAR systems. The goal is to generate a precise, redundant, and constantly up-to-date model of the vehicle’s environment that serves as the basis for autonomous navigation and decision-making processes.
The quality of this environmental model is largely determined by the intelligent fusion of the various sensor technologies. By combining their respective strengths and compensating for individual weaknesses, a highly reliable representation of reality is created—essential for the safe operation of autonomous systems in road traffic.
Without HPCs, this technological achievement would not be feasible. They provide the necessary computing power, the required data bandwidth, and the capability for deep system integration—thus forming the indispensable foundation for the next generation of connected, autonomously operating vehicles.
A key technology in this context is the use of high-performance computers (HPCs) in the vehicle. These powerful platforms handle the central task of real-time data processing—for example, from camera, radar, and LIDAR systems. The goal is to generate a precise, redundant, and constantly up-to-date model of the vehicle’s environment that serves as the basis for autonomous navigation and decision-making processes.
The quality of this environmental model is largely determined by the intelligent fusion of the various sensor technologies. By combining their respective strengths and compensating for individual weaknesses, a highly reliable representation of reality is created—essential for the safe operation of autonomous systems in road traffic.
Without HPCs, this technological achievement would not be feasible. They provide the necessary computing power, the required data bandwidth, and the capability for deep system integration—thus forming the indispensable foundation for the next generation of connected, autonomously operating vehicles.
Connections for Extreme Conditions – Stable, Strong, Durable
The performance of high-performance computers is directly dependent on the efficiency of the underlying communication infrastructure. High-speed connections with extremely low latency and high bandwidth are essential for reliable interaction between sensors, zone controllers, and central processing units.
However, it is not only electrical performance that matters; the components must also withstand the harsh conditions of the automotive environment. Mechanical robustness, vibration resistance, temperature resistance, and a long service life are critical criteria—especially in safety-critical systems.
Reliable, fail-safe, and durable contact systems are therefore an integral part of a future-proof vehicle architecture. Only when the physical interfaces are as powerful and resilient as the connected computing systems can the full potential of data-driven functions—such as autonomous driving maneuvers—be safely and sustainably realized.
However, it is not only electrical performance that matters; the components must also withstand the harsh conditions of the automotive environment. Mechanical robustness, vibration resistance, temperature resistance, and a long service life are critical criteria—especially in safety-critical systems.
Reliable, fail-safe, and durable contact systems are therefore an integral part of a future-proof vehicle architecture. Only when the physical interfaces are as powerful and resilient as the connected computing systems can the full potential of data-driven functions—such as autonomous driving maneuvers—be safely and sustainably realized.
Hybrid, modular connectors for zonal vehicle electrical systems – a strong partnership between Rosenberger and ept
The shift in vehicle electrical architecture toward zonal concepts opens up new possibilities for highly automated vehicle production. In this forward-looking environment, Rosenberger and ept are setting new standards together: With a jointly developed portfolio of hybrid, modular connectors that combine signal, data, and power transmission, both companies are addressing key challenges in modern vehicle architectures.
The combination of modular design principles and state-of-the-art press-fit technology enables the compact integration of different functional units—making optimal use of the available installation space. This allows for the creation of modular subassemblies that are ideally suited for robot-assisted assembly processes. This reduces handling complexity and contributes significantly to increased efficiency throughout the entire supply chain.
The focus is on the consistent application of established standards and platform strategies. Through the synergistic combination of technologies, Rosenberger and ept are able to provide highly automated, scalable, and cost-efficient connector solutions within zonal wiring harness approaches.
A key result of this close collaboration is the HYMC® portfolio (Hybrid Modular Connector). During development, Rosenberger managed the high-speed interfaces while ept handled the T-Com press-fit zone—from requirement definition through architecture to system integration.
The integrated T-Com press-fit zone from ept ensures maximum reliability, even in safety-critical applications such as autonomous driving, ADAS, infotainment, connected services, display technology, or V2X communication.
With this collaboration, Rosenberger and ept are sending a strong signal: one of innovative strength, system integration, and industrial scalability in the service of the automotive future.
The combination of modular design principles and state-of-the-art press-fit technology enables the compact integration of different functional units—making optimal use of the available installation space. This allows for the creation of modular subassemblies that are ideally suited for robot-assisted assembly processes. This reduces handling complexity and contributes significantly to increased efficiency throughout the entire supply chain.
The focus is on the consistent application of established standards and platform strategies. Through the synergistic combination of technologies, Rosenberger and ept are able to provide highly automated, scalable, and cost-efficient connector solutions within zonal wiring harness approaches.
A key result of this close collaboration is the HYMC® portfolio (Hybrid Modular Connector). During development, Rosenberger managed the high-speed interfaces while ept handled the T-Com press-fit zone—from requirement definition through architecture to system integration.
The integrated T-Com press-fit zone from ept ensures maximum reliability, even in safety-critical applications such as autonomous driving, ADAS, infotainment, connected services, display technology, or V2X communication.
With this collaboration, Rosenberger and ept are sending a strong signal: one of innovative strength, system integration, and industrial scalability in the service of the automotive future.
T-Com crimping zone by ept – proven connection technology for maximum reliability
Unlike traditional soldering techniques, ept’s T-Com press-fit technology offers a process-reliable, thermally decoupled connection. This proprietary technology delivers impressive low failure rates, typically below 1 FIT (Failure in Time)—which statistically corresponds to one failure per billion operating hours.
With over 120 billion field-proven contacts worldwide, ept’s T-Com press-fit zone is recognized as the industry standard by nearly all global OEMs. Its gas-tight contact design ensures maximum mechanical durability, making it particularly suitable for safety-critical applications in areas such as autonomous driving, ADAS, infotainment, and V2X communication.
Overview of technological advantages:
- High holding forces: up to 100 N per contact directly on the circuit board
- No soldering required: no broken or cold solder joints
- Outstanding vibration and shock resistance: tested up to 200 g acceleration
Modular system for maximum flexibility up to 56 Gbit/s
Rosenberger’s modular system combines market-leading connection technologies into scalable design solutions—ideal for the complex requirements of connected vehicle architectures. It enables precise adaptation to a wide range of applications, from ADAS and autonomous driving systems to infotainment and gateway applications.
Coaxial high-frequency connectors
For example, in camera-based systems.
HFM®: FAKRA-Mini up to 20 GHz, 28 Gbit/s
RMC®: Mini-Coax up to 9 GHz
FAKRA: Standardized RF interface up to 6 GHz, 8 Gbit/s
HFM®: FAKRA-Mini up to 20 GHz, 28 Gbit/s
RMC®: Mini-Coax up to 9 GHz
FAKRA: Standardized RF interface up to 6 GHz, 8 Gbit/s
Differential data connectors
For Ethernet-based communication, such as the connection between control units (zone controllers and HPC).
H-MTD®: Shielded, twisted pair up to 20 GHz, 56 Gbit/s
MTD®: Shielded, twisted pair up to 1 GHz, 1 Gbit/s
RosenbergerHSD®: High signal integrity up to 6 GHz, 8 Gbit/s
H-MTD®: Shielded, twisted pair up to 20 GHz, 56 Gbit/s
MTD®: Shielded, twisted pair up to 1 GHz, 1 Gbit/s
RosenbergerHSD®: High signal integrity up to 6 GHz, 8 Gbit/s
Design-in for system efficiency and process reliability
Targeted design-in not only supports efficient PCB routing but also enables the automated assembly of complex cable harnesses. The result: high integration density, reduced process costs, and maximum design freedom, all while ensuring reliable electromagnetic compatibility (EMC).
Conclusion: The foundation of future software-defined mobility
The evolution toward the Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) not only marks a paradigm shift in automotive development—it requires a complete rethinking of the vehicle electrical system architecture. In an era where functions are increasingly defined by software, controlled by central high-performance computers, and supported by continuous data streams, the vehicle electrical system is becoming the strategic backbone of future vehicle platforms.
Zonal architectures, powerful computing platforms, and reliable high-speed connections form the technological foundation for autonomous driving functions, connected services, and real-time communication. However, this transformation can only be realized with physically robust, standardized, and modular connector systems that meet the highest standards for performance, reliability, and integration.
The joint development by Rosenberger and ept—in particular the HYMC® portfolio with the proven T-Com press-fit zone—demonstrates how technological synergies can be used to create not just individual components, but entire system solutions capable of meeting the demands of the next generation of vehicles.This makes it clear: The vehicle electrical system is far more than just a technical infrastructure. It is a key driver of innovation, scalability, and competitiveness in the automotive age of connectivity, automation, and digitalization.
Zonal architectures, powerful computing platforms, and reliable high-speed connections form the technological foundation for autonomous driving functions, connected services, and real-time communication. However, this transformation can only be realized with physically robust, standardized, and modular connector systems that meet the highest standards for performance, reliability, and integration.
The joint development by Rosenberger and ept—in particular the HYMC® portfolio with the proven T-Com press-fit zone—demonstrates how technological synergies can be used to create not just individual components, but entire system solutions capable of meeting the demands of the next generation of vehicles.This makes it clear: The vehicle electrical system is far more than just a technical infrastructure. It is a key driver of innovation, scalability, and competitiveness in the automotive age of connectivity, automation, and digitalization.
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