Electrical/Electronic Architecture

Evolving towards the service-oriented vehicle
30+
years of expertise in electronic controls for FORVIA HELLA

Source : https://www.forvia.com/en/shanghai-autoshow 

+100
million body control modules sold by FORVIA HELLA

Source : https://www.hella.com/microsite-electronics/en/Products/Body-Control-Module-4935/ 

From Domains to Zones

With growing demands for connectivity, comfort, and electrification, vehicle electronics are undergoing a major transformation — moving from a traditional domain-based architecture to a more flexible and streamlined zonal approach. This shift reduces wiring space while unlocking new possibilities for innovation.

Centralizing functions with the CDC

The Cockpit Domain Controller, as an integrated electronic system, centralizes all digital functionalities – infotainment, powertrain, safety related signals, etc. – while managing their data. This is no easy task: the CDC often controls 50 electric paths.

Transitioning to unified computing platforms with the ACM

The Advanced Control Module acts as a centralized processing hub in modern vehicles, managing domain-specific systems (powertrain, ADAS, or even infotainment) through integrated hardware/software. ACMs optimize performance via real-time sensor data analysis.

HPC and zonal modules: architecture of the future

The “zonal” architecture tends to replace the traditional “domain” architecture”. In the zonal architecture, the HPC (High-Performance computing) acts as the vehicle’s central brain, running software and processing data from all systems. Zonal modules, placed in each vehicle zone, manage local sensors relaying data to the HPC. This collaboration enables centralized intelligence, reduces wiring, and supports fast updates for software-defined vehicles. Tomorrow, the pair could replace the CDC and its mono-task chips.

IPDM: an “in-between” supportive device

The Intelligent Power Distribution Module is a key component in current and future vehicle electrical architectures. It centrally manages and distributes electrical power to various vehicle systems, replacing traditional fuse boxes with smart, programmable controls for improved safety, diagnostics, and efficiency.

New data, new possibilities: the future of service oriented vehicles

Smart Car Access

Smart Car Access

Distance unlocking using smartphones

This technology enables hands-free access to the vehicle through communication between a private smartphone and Smart Access anchors in the vehicle. It’s a proven technology in the mass market segment: HELLA is first on the market with a UWB-based car access system.

Child Presence Detection

Child Presence Detection

In-cabin safety with UWB sensing

In this system, UWB relay antennas installed in the passenger compartment detect vital signs and occupant movements, enabling the presence of children or infants left alone inside a vehicle to be recognized.

Traffic Rules Engine

Traffic Rules Engine

A virtual co-driver

In highly automated vehicles (Level 3+), this software continuously monitors planned actions of the car and compares them with current traffic rules. Based on sensor and map data, it ensures safety and respects local traffic regulations at all times. 

LightOpen

LightOpen

The illuminating cloud-based software

Thanks to the presence of cloud-based lighting control software, drivers can define and adjust their vehicles’ lighting, inside or out, and even remotely. This new service has been developed with regulatory compliance and lighting design quality in mind

Our industry leading expertise

Driving the shift to software-defined vehicles

FORVIA supports the shift to Software-Defined Vehicles across the entire value chain—from E/E architecture development to diagnostics and services. Our wide range of technologies helps OEMs manage this transformation with agile, future-ready solutions.

Our featured technologies

IconF e-Fuse

IconF e-Fuse

Based on +30 years of experience, FORVIA HELLA’s iConF eFuse moves beyond cable protection to smart energy distribution. With AI-based predictive maintenance and digital twins, it ensures fail-operational performance. Integrated in ECUs, it cuts wiring by up to 30%, boosting space, weight, and system efficiency.

Appning

Appning

FORVIA’s app marketplace blends “app” and “happening” to reflect leadership in connected mobility. With 200+ apps, including Microsoft Teams, it offers OEMs secure, customizable infotainment and developers easy market access. Already number 1 in the white-label market apps, it targets 20% market share by 2025 with seamless, scalable integration. 

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Our other technologies

Electrification & energy management

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Safe and automated driving

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Digital and sustainable cockpit experiences

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