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Currently, a large number of hydraulic control systems in vehicles are used to transform human inputs through mechanical means to control braking systems, engine torque or vehicle speed, steering and other mechanical systems throughout the vehicle. Replacing these systems with digital electro-mechanical control systems can reduce the system cost, increase reliability and flexibility, when compared to the traditional solutions. With the advent of digital by-wire communication systems and advanced semiconductor solutions to enable a new wave of subsystems such as: electric power assisted steering, hybrid technology, ABS, traction and stability control systems.

Embedded processors are incorporated into almost every type of electronic device. The automobile is no exception where the expectations for new features; system performance and increased reliability are increasing rapidly. Advances in engine technology and the eventual “Green Machines” will require new approaches to solving many of the current technology barriers of today. Semiconductors will play an increasing role in breaking through many of the electrical challenges with higher voltage power semiconductors, new memory technologies, increased performance of the embedded processor and improvements in timing control functions. New semiconductor technologies will enable exciting opportunities toward solving existing technical barriers within the automotive electronics industry. Microcontroller's now contain over 30 million transistors and will push beyond 60 million transistors in 2008.

The traditional twelve-volt automotive system is already being strained by luxury add-ins and with the coming inclusion of the next generation powertrain systems, it is now apparent that the electrical system has to provide more power than a twelve-volt system could ever economically supply. The advances in HCCI and SI engine technology will lead to direct injection, Variable Valve Actuation & Control, variable compression technology and CVT transmissions that require much more electrical energy than the current alternator can supply. The hybrid vehicle and the drive towards fuel cell vehicles will enable a series of other exciting options to the automotive digital design engineer. The enablement of new hybrid powertrain solutions, x-by wire, Digital Electro-Mechanical Brake (EMB) and electric power assisted steering systems that a 42 volt electrical system becomes a clear next generation choice for many automotive OEM's.