GM uses Freescale MCUs in powertrain systems

Freescale Semiconductor is providing advanced microcontroller (MCU) technology to help General Motors (GM) drive breakthroughs in green engine design.

According to an agreement reached by both companies, GM will use Freescale dual-core Power Architecture MCUs to manage sophisticated powertrain systems in future GM vehicle models.

Freescale MCUs are instrumental in helping GM meet stringent emissions requirements, boost fuel efficiency and transfer more engine power to the road for a better driving experience.

GM electronic control systems have incorporated Freescale technology since 1979, when a Freescale MCU was first used in GM's closed-loop carburetor controller.

Freescale is the only semiconductor company to receive GM's Supplier of the Year award for two consecutive years.

In 2004, GM announced a landmark agreement to use Freescale's 32-bit Power Architecture MCUs in GM powertrain engine control systems around the world.

'This latest agreement will enable GM to standardise on Freescale's dual-core 32-bit MCUs to help reduce system costs, shorten development time and simplify design of future GM powertrain control modules,' said Ray Cornyn, director of automotive microcontrollers at Freescale.

Faced with soaring fuel prices and pressure to curb greenhouse gases, companies are racing to design vehicles that deliver better fuel economy and reduced emissions.

Strategy Analytics forecasts that 32-bit devices will account for 58 per cent of the automotive MCU market by 2015 and cites that these high-end MCUs will be the key enablers of future emissions-controlling powertrain technology.

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