In connected car news are Renesas, GlobalLogic, ECARX, Volvo, Polestar & Synopsis.
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Renesas RA8P1 Microcontrollers
Renesas Electronics has launched its new RA8P1 microcontroller (MCU) group, engineered for AI, machine learning, and real-time analytics at the edge. Combining a 1GHz Arm Cortex-M85 and Ethos-U55 neural processing unit, the RA8P1 achieves a record 256 GOPS AI performance and over 7300 CoreMarks in CPU efficiency. Built on TSMC’s 22nm ultra-low leakage process and featuring embedded MRAM, the MCU offers exceptional speed, low power use, and durability.
Targeting vision and voice AI, the RA8P1 supports networks like ResNet and TinyYolo, and includes camera and audio interfaces, advanced cryptographic security (including Arm TrustZone and secure boot), and versatile memory options. It integrates with RUHMI, a new development framework for AI model deployment, and supports popular machine learning formats like TensorFlow Lite and PyTorch.
Renesas is also offering pre-integrated “Winning Combinations” system designs using the RA8P1 for applications like video conferencing, surveillance, and robotics. The MCUs are now available, backed by tools, partner solutions, and evaluation kits to accelerate development.
GlobalLogic selected by Volvo
GlobalLogic Inc., a Hitachi Group company and leader in digital engineering, has been chosen by Volvo Cars as a strategic global engineering partner to support the development of next-generation digital mobility experiences. The collaboration will focus on creating faster, smarter, and scalable software solutions across the vehicle lifecycle, using the latest technologies and GlobalLogic’s extensive industry expertise.
The partnership draws on GlobalLogic’s 20-plus years of experience in automotive software, including software-defined vehicle architecture, digital cockpits, autonomous driving, and connected car platforms. By integrating advanced digital engineering capabilities, the initiative aims to redefine the modern driver experience and promote more sustainable and personalized mobility.
GlobalLogic was previously honored with the Resilience Award at the 2024 Volvo Cars Supplier Expo, recognizing its innovative contributions to automotive software development.
ECARX Google for Volvo and Polestar
ECARX Holdings Inc., a global mobility technology provider, has released a white paper detailing its rapid integration of Google Automotive Services (GAS) into its infotainment systems, specifically in the Volvo EX30 and Polestar 4. GAS, built on top of Android Automotive OS (AAOS), offers widely used Google services such as Maps, Assistant, and the Play Store. While GAS integration is typically a 12–18 month process due to complex certification requirements, ECARX significantly shortened this timeline using a test-driven development strategy and in-house tools.
The company implemented continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines embedded with Google’s xTS test suites, along with a custom-built automated “test farm” capable of running 1.6 million test cases rapidly. These systems allowed for early detection and resolution of regressions, eliminating long waits for formal test cycles and reducing certification risks. ECARX first applied these techniques to the Volvo EX30, achieving GAS certification in 10 months, and later improved the process further to certify the Polestar 4 in just eight months.
According to ECARX COO Peter Cirino, the white paper not only outlines the company’s own process innovations, including work on both Snapdragon and ECARX Antora 1000 computing platforms, but also provides valuable insights for automakers globally. The company’s approach demonstrates how OEMs can accelerate deployment of fully certified, Google-integrated in-vehicle infotainment systems while maintaining high standards of security, performance, and user experience
Synopsys’ Synopsis of China Agreement
Synopsys, Inc. issued the below statement in connection with the lifting of recent U.S. export restrictions related to China.
On July 2, Synopsys received a letter from the Bureau of Industry and Security of the U.S. Department of Commerce informing Synopsys that the export restrictions related to China, pursuant to a letter received on May 29, 2025, have now been rescinded, effective immediately. Synopsys is working to restore access to the recently restricted products in China. Synopsys is continuing to assess the impact of export restrictions related to China on its business, operating results and financials.
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