Scaleo chip and ARM address need for cleaner, more energy-efficient automotive solutions

SOPHIA ANTIPOLIS, FRANCE: Scaleo chip announced that the company has entered into an agreement with ARM to combine the ARM Cortex-R5 MPCore processor with Scaleo chip technologies into OLEA, Scaleo chip's new family of microcontrollers optimized for powertrain systems.

The agreement addresses one of the key challenges of automotive manufacturers: how to deliver cleaner, more energy-efficient vehicles. The powertrain, which includes the engine and transmission, represents the most significant area for potential improvements in cleanliness and energy-efficiency using advanced electronics. OLEA microcontrollers will embed ARM technology and deliver leading powertrain control solutions for advanced internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEV), hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) and electric vehicles (EV).

"In a market where most automotive manufacturers have little choice but to rely on limited proprietary solutions, Scaleo chip will offer OLEA microcontrollers based on leading processors from ARM," said Bruno Paucard, president and CEO, Scaleo chip.
"The benefit for customers is clear - the ability to instantly leverage a strong, comprehensive ecosystem while ensuring the integration of future proof technology within their system. In this context, working with ARM is not only an excellent choice, but also confirmation by Scaleo chip of its long term strategy in the automotive market."

OLEA provides unique features and patented breakthrough technologies including energy saving flexible hardwired powertrain control, multi-core system integrity and deterministic Ethernet based communication. With its range of safety-critical features, the ARM Cortex-R5 processor will complement Scaleo chip functional safety dedicated functions to address the ISO 26262 standard.

"The trend for high performance solutions that are also energy-efficient is fundamentally important for both the automotive industry and other markets, such as industrial automation and motor control," said Keith Clarke, VP of embedded processors, ARM. "We look forward to working with Scaleo chip to address the requirements of car manufacturers and sub-contractors. By combining the innovative approaches of both companies, we believe that a new standard of powertrain solution will soon be realized, complementing the wider range of ARM technology-based infotainment, body control and safety solutions already available to the automotive industry."

Scaleo chip and ARM plan to jointly promote and demonstrate solutions throughout 2012.