Infineon is VW’s first strategic semiconductor partner

Volkswagen has named Infineon as its first partner in a strategic programme designed to ensure that its future requirements for electronic systems can be met. As part of the programme, VW intends to cooperate directly with chip manufacturers to develop technology solutions for future vehicles and says a key aspect will be the precise definition of requirements.

According to VW, automated and electric vehicles will require the use of key technologies, including sensors that recognise surroundings, microcontrollers that process data and enable real-time decision-making, and power electronics for the vehicle drivetrain.

“Joint development tools, such as virtual prototyping systems, will make it possible to further reduce development times, despite the continual increase in system complexity,” said Dr Volkmar Tanneberger, VW’s head of electrical and electronic development.

Peter Schiefer, president of Infineon’s automotive division, noted: “We look forward to cooperating even more closely with Volkswagen. High performance semiconductors are key to the future car. With our products, vehicles of every class will soon be fully automated and purely electric.”