In connected car news are Phison, Helios Technologies, Mercedes-Benz, Indie Semiconductor and JLR.
Phison: First Independent NAND Controller Supplier to Achieve Automotive Cybersecurity Certification
Phison Electronics, a leader in NAND controller and storage technology, has achieved ISO/SAE 21434 automotive cybersecurity certification, becoming the first independent supplier of NAND controllers to receive this global standard. This milestone reflects Phison’s compliance with stringent cybersecurity standards, addressing the growing security needs of connected and autonomous vehicles.
ISO/SAE 21434 provides a framework for safeguarding in-vehicle systems against cyber threats, ensuring enhanced security and reliability. Phison’s year-long certification process involved extensive internal evaluations, external audits, and cross-departmental collaboration, bolstering its technical expertise in automotive cybersecurity.
CEO K.S. Pua highlighted the certification as a testament to Phison’s commitment to innovation and competitive edge in automotive storage solutions. With the EU’s UNECE R155 regulation requiring robust cybersecurity measures, the certification strengthens Phison’s market position and appeals to global automakers and suppliers.
Phison’s automotive-grade storage solutions, backed by its certification, are positioned to meet increasing demands for secure, reliable vehicle systems, further solidifying the company’s leadership in the automotive technology sector.
Helios Technologies Unveils PowerView™ U35 Rugged Display Technology
Helios Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: HLIO), a global leader in motion and electronic controls, has introduced the PowerView™ U35, the first round display in its next-generation Ultimate Series. Developed by Enovation Controls, part of Helios’ Electronics segment, the U35 is a high-performance, rugged display designed for extreme environments and will be available for order by late 2024.
Equipped with a dual-core processor, a 3.5-inch anti-glare screen with 1000 Nit brightness, and an IP67 rating, the U35 offers superior visibility, durability, and functionality for outdoor and industrial applications. It features versatile connectivity options, including CAN, USB, and Wi-Fi, along with digital and analog inputs and outputs.
With an extended operating temperature range and robust construction, the U35 is optimized for demanding conditions, reinforcing Helios’ commitment to delivering advanced, reliable technology. This new addition to the Ultimate Series aligns with the company’s strategy of offering premium components that integrate seamlessly into subsystem solutions.
Sean Bagan, Helios’ Interim CEO, emphasized that the U35 “sets a new standard for rugged displays,” underscoring Helios’ focus on quality, innovation, and meeting the needs of diverse industries.///
Mercedes-Benz Launches Apple Watch App for Vehicle Interaction
Mercedes-Benz expanded its digital ecosystem by introducing its app’s key features on the Apple Watch. This integration allows users to interact with their vehicles directly from their wrist, eliminating the need for a smartphone. Features include real-time access to vehicle range, fuel or battery levels, remote locking and unlocking, vehicle location tracking with pedestrian navigation, and ensuring windows are closed. The app also offers a compass mode for navigation in areas without maps, delivering a seamless and interactive experience that extends beyond the car. The Mercedes-Benz Apple Watch app is available now.
Mercedes-Benz Enhances Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC
Mercedes-Benz has upgraded its Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC, doubling parking speed. The system simplifies parking by allowing drivers to initiate automated parking via a digital button. A progress bar tracks the process, and PARKTRONIC tones are muted during operation. Models equipped with a 360° camera offer customizable views during parking.
Key improvements include:
- Continuous parking space detection below 22 mph (35 km/h), even in tight spaces with just 20 inches (50 cm) of clearance.
- Automated parking for perpendicular spaces with forward or reverse options.
- Enhanced safety features, including sensors that detect crossing vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists, issuing warnings and performing emergency braking if necessary.
These updates now come standard in select models, including the E-Class, S-Class, EQS, EQE, and Maybach variants with the parking package. The 360° camera remains optional.
Indie Semiconductor Achieves ASIL-D Certification for New Safety IC for Powertrain Applications
Indie Semiconductor (Nasdaq: INDI), a leader in automotive solutions, has introduced a system basis safety integrated chip (IC) designed for vehicle powertrain applications. Developed in collaboration with a leading European Tier 1 automotive integrator, the IC offers advanced safety monitoring and supervision for critical powertrain operations.
The solution has received ASIL-D certification, the highest safety standard under ISO 26262, from SGS-TÜV Saar. This certification validates its robust design, which incorporates high-accuracy voltage monitoring, logic error detection, and a window watchdog to ensure safe responses during failures.
Fred Jarrar, vice president of indie’s power and ASIC business unit, highlighted the importance of functional safety in powertrain applications and celebrated the certification as a testament to the company’s rigorous design and development practices.
Indie’s ASIL-D certified IC positions the company as a leader in safety and electrification trends, paving the way for new high-value collaborations with OEMs and Tier 1 partners. Production of the chip is set to begin in the second half of 2025.
Faraday Future to Change Nasdaq Ticker Symbol to “FFAI” in 2025
Faraday Future Intelligent Electric Inc. (NASDAQ: FFIE), a California-based electric mobility company, will change its Nasdaq ticker symbol to “FFAI” in early 2025. This shift reflects its focus on artificial intelligence and the new FX brand strategy. Surveys over the past year showed strong support for the change. The company will reveal the official date and further details, including an “FF AI Open Day,” in January 2025.///
JLR Achieves Breakthrough in Recycling Polyurethane Seat Foam
JLR has pioneered a closed-loop recycling process for polyurethane seat foam in collaboration with Dow’s MobilityScience™ and seating leader Adient. This marks the first use of recycled seat foam in automotive production.
The initiative aims to test the material at scale in pre-production vehicles next year. Polyurethane foam, typically challenging to recycle and long-lasting in landfills, will now be part of a sustainable “circular seat.” This innovation is projected to reduce CO₂ emissions by half, saving over 44 kg of CO₂ per seat—equivalent to charging nearly 3,000 smartphones—while maintaining performance and reducing waste.