The Significance of Cloud and Edge Computing in the Automotive Industry

Edge and cloud computing collaborate to create a safer and more efficient transportation environment.

FREMONT, CA: Equipping the edge vehicle with the promise of in-depth data processing and machine learning has sparked much debate in the automobile industry. Manufacturers can minimize data transport costs while enabling real-time automated driving assistance systems (ADAS) to react and adapt. The reality is that moving completely to the edge is not financially or practically feasible. With cloud computing, it is possible to support certain functions at the edge.

Edge computing and cloud computing are enhancing one another to create a safer and more efficient transportation environment. Combining cloud and edge computing is essential for the future growth of the vehicle sector. As vehicle complexity rises, OEMs need a system to access the massive, real-world data required to support precision analysis and machine learning algorithms.

Better monitoring

Cloud and edge computing aid original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in monitoring the state and operation of their cars, including detecting defects before they result in potentially deadly recalls. Edge computing accomplishes this by monitoring the temperature of the electric vehicle battery and alerting the infotainment system if it reaches a harmful level. In contrast, cloud computing utilizes data transferred from the car to the cloud. One example is examining the relationship between an EV battery's long-term health and driving behaviors or environmental conditions.

Working together

The information collected by a vehicle's sensor serves as the basis for both cloud and edge computing. The two technologies, the cloud, are for deployment and analysis, while the edge is for refinement. With the number of sensors and electronic controllers, more data is available to redefine the system's operation and make decisions. Using real-time data, automakers evaluate actual use cases and implement new services and improvements to improve the functioning and efficiency of their vehicles.

Unlocking data

The telematics control unit (TCU) is the entry point for complete vehicle data for edge and cloud computing. The architecture and functionality of automotive TCUs have undergone significant modification.