Intel Introduces AI in Automotive Industry

Last Updated on January 10, 2024 by SPN Editor

Intel is broadening its AI in automotive industry. The tech giant is making waves at CES 2024 with major updates for the automotive sector, unveiling plans for a groundbreaking system on a chip (SoC) designed to power next-gen AI features in forthcoming vehicles.

It has purchased Silicon Mobility, a firm that focuses on system-on-chips (SoCs) for smart electric vehicle (EV) energy management. Additionally, Intel has engineered a novel series of AI-enhanced, software-defined vehicle SoCs, which are crafted to facilitate AI in automotive industry such as monitoring of drivers and passengers.

Intel’s strategic acquisition of Silicon Mobility, a firm that specializes in system-on-chips (SoCs) for smart energy management in electric vehicles (EVs), is aimed at bolstering energy management in EVs. The SoCs from Silicon Mobility are engineered with dedicated accelerators for energy distribution and are co-developed with software algorithms to enhance the energy efficiency of vehicles.

This technology broadens Intel’s influence in vehicles, extending beyond high-performance computing to intelligent and programmable power devices. The incorporation of Silicon Mobility’s technology into Intel’s portfolio will introduce AI efficiencies into the energy management of electric vehicles, aligning with Intel’s sustainability objectives and addressing a vital need for energy management in the industry.

Jack Weast, VP and general manager of Intel Automotive, emphasized, “Intel is adopting a comprehensive approach to tackle the automotive industry’s significant hurdles. Integrating innovative AI solutions throughout the vehicle platform will facilitate the transition to EVs. The acquisition of Silicon Mobility not only aligns with our sustainability objectives but also addresses a critical need for energy management in the industry.”

An SoC, functioning as a computer system condensed into a single chip, typically encompasses a CPU, storage, memory, and various other components.

Intel’s upcoming family of software-driven vehicle SoCs promises advanced AI functionalities, enabling monitoring of both drivers and passengers, generative AI capabilities, high-definition video conferencing, gaming features, and more.

These software-driven vehicles can receive new features through software updates, resembling the frequent enhancements rolled out for iPhones via iOS updates.

Beyond spotlighting the AI capabilities and over-the-air updates for vehicles, Intel aims to help automakers streamline their electronics. The company asserts that its chips will contribute to reducing the number of electronic control units (ECUs) in vehicles. ECUs are central systems managing various car features, from AC to power seats.

Although Intel’s chips are already prevalent in the automotive sphere, this latest initiative aligns with the surging trend of electric vehicle sales. By integrating generative AI in automotive industry, Intel aims to fortify its position in the AI landscape, promising users a more personalized driving experience in upcoming vehicles.

Zeekr, a Chinese company, is the inaugural original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to incorporate these new SoCs. They plan to utilize them to generate AI-driven experiences in their forthcoming vehicles. Intel’s methodology is geared towards propelling innovative AI in automotive industry assisting the industry in transitioning to electric vehicles. This strategy is in line with Intel’s sustainability objectives and addresses a crucial energy management requirement for the industry.

Role of AI in Automotive Industry

AI plays a pivotal role in managing energy in EVs. AI not only enhances the driving experience of EVs but also assists in surmounting the challenges they face, thereby contributing to a sustainable future.

Predictive Maintenance: AI can scrutinize sensor data and other pertinent inputs to identify potential problems before they worsen, ensuring EVs remain in prime condition and averting breakdowns. For example, BMW employs AI to anticipate maintenance requirements for its EVs.

Autonomous Driving: AI-empowered autonomous driving systems allow EVs to navigate traffic, avert accidents, and pinpoint the quickest routes, thereby enhancing safety and efficiency in transportation.

Optimized Energy Usage: AI can analyze data from the vehicle’s sensors and other sources to ascertain the optimal energy usage for each vehicle. This could involve optimizing the air conditioning system, adjusting the engine’s power output, and even suggesting the most energy-efficient route to a destination.

Managing EV Charging: AI facilitates optimized charging schedules, load balancing, and reduced energy costs for EV charging. The use of AI algorithms maximizes resource utilization and helps prevent grid strain during periods of high demand.

Participation in Electricity Network: Modern electric cars can independently earn money as participants in an electricity network (“grid”) with their battery capacity.

Intel’s acquisition of Silicon Mobility empowers the company to utilize AI to effect substantial enhancements in the energy management of electric vehicles. This not only boosts the performance and efficiency of EVs but also contributes to a more sustainable future.