Freescale microcontrollers to power GM’s next-generation electronic engine control systems

Freescale microcontrollers to power GM’s next-generation electronic engine control systems

Global standardization on Freescale MCU technology helps GM reduce system cost, shorten development time and enhance green engine design

AUSTIN, Texas – Oct. 28, 2008 – Freescale Semiconductor, the leading supplier of semiconductors to the automotive industry, is providing advanced microcontroller (MCU) technology to help General Motors 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 prestigious 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 extends that cooperative initiative to include Freescale’s next-generation MCU technology.

“Freescale has provided GM with enabling technology for nearly 30 years, and together, we continue to drive powertrain innovations that improve fuel efficiency and reduce harmful emissions while enhancing vehicle performance,” said Ray Cornyn, director of automotive microcontrollers at Freescale. “This latest agreement will enable GM to standardize 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.”

Faced with soaring fuel prices and pressure to curb greenhouse gases, automakers are racing to design vehicles that deliver better fuel economy and reduced emissions. Strategy Analytics forecasts that 32-bit devices will account for 58 percent of the $7.6 billion automotive MCU market by 2015 and cites that these high-end MCUs will be the key enablers of future emissions-controlling powertrain technology.

According to Strategy Analytics, Freescale is the world’s leading supplier of automotive MCUs. Freescale is also the foremost supplier of 32-bit powertrain MCUs, with 50 percent market share. In 2007, Freescale’s Power Architecture MCU shipments for powertrain topped 30 million units. To date, the company has shipped approximately 150 million 32-bit Power Architecture MCUs that provide the processing intelligence for today’s electronic modules used in engine and transmission control.

About Freescale Semiconductor

Freescale Semiconductor is a global leader in the design and manufacture of embedded semiconductors for the automotive, consumer, industrial, networking and wireless markets. The privately held company is based in Austin, Texas, and has design, research and development, manufacturing or sales operations in more than 30 countries. Freescale is one of the world’s largest semiconductor companies with 2007 sales of $5.7 billion (USD). www.freescale.com

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