ECARX, a global mobility tech company, will debut its next-generation digital head unit (DHU) on the new Lotus Eletre Hyper-SUV. The platform includes ECARX’s first dual-chip system to enable server-level computing power for rapid processing, an immersive multi-screen user experience and capacity for continuous improvement over the lifetime of the car via future over-the-air (OTA) updates.
The ECARX digital head unit reconfigures the user’s in-car experience by providing fully customisable displays, hosted on an advanced Driver Information Module (DIM) and 15.1-inch advanced ultra-slim floating one-billion-colour OLED touchscreen for more realistic graphics and a more futuristic visual effect.
The system uses Qualcomm’s third-generation automotive grade chipset, the Snapdragon 8155 providing 12GB RAM, 128GB of storage and 7nm processors. The dual chip set-up uses one master chip to control all driving information functions, including the instrument display, Heads-Up Display (HUD), 360-view camera and functional safety features; while a secondary chip drives infotainment functions. It also carries one MCU chip and ECARX’s self-developed software stack.
The HMI interface displays the charging status and vehicle control functions graphically through a 3D real-time rendering of the car, powered by computer graphics game engine, Unreal. By placing these functions at level-zero, the user experience is smoother and more convenient as key operations are done from the homescreen, without the need for secondary page views or apps.
The car’s Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), based on two NVIDIA Orin-X chips, connects with the DHU sharing real-time data with the driver via the main screen. The set-up allows the driver to safely monitor the vehicle condition and ADAS status while driving.
Commenting, ECARX Chairman and CEO, Ziyu Shen said: “The Lotus Eletre’s digital head unit is our most advanced ever and our first based on a dual-chip system. The technical capabilities provide a seamless and immersive user experience and by working in close collaboration with Lotus’s design team, we’ve delivered a solution that truly embodies the iconic Lotus brand.
Maximillian Szwaj, Vice-President of Lotus Technology and Managing Director of Lotus Tech Innovation Centre, commented: “For the newest generation of Lotus cars, we are working together with the best engineering houses in Europe. The cooperation between LTIC and ECARX is an example of how to deliver the best technologies for the mobility of the future and guarantee excellence in quality and performance for our customers.”
ECARX is poised for strong international growth as its technology and products, including a customisable full-stack automotive computing platform, enable global automotive brands to define unique user experiences and rapidly advance the design and development of smart EVs as the industry shifts towards more connected, automated, and electrified mobility.
The Lotus Eletre is the all-new and all-electric lifestyle model from Lotus. It was unveiled last March and goes into production later this year. It continues Lotus’ transformation from a UK sports car company to a global performance car business and brand.
Eletre is the first of a new breed of pure electric SUVs. It takes the core principles and Lotus DNA from almost 75 years of sports car design and engineering, evolving them into a desirable all-new lifestyle car for the next generation of Lotus customers.
