Qualcomm Technologies launched the Snapdragon Cockpit Elite and Snapdragon Ride Elite platforms, set to redefine vehicle technology with enhanced performance, AI capability, and power efficiency.
Equipped with Qualcomm’s Oryon CPU, the new platforms boast 3x faster processing and up to 12x improved AI performance over previous models.
Li Auto and Mercedes-Benz have already selected these platforms for future vehicle models, Qualcomm said at the Oct 21-23 Snapdragon Summit in Maui, Hawaii.
The Snapdragon Cockpit Elite targets advanced in-cabin digital experiences, while the Snapdragon Ride Elite is designed for automated driving.
Automakers can leverage both functionalities within the same system-on-chip (SoC), allowing integration of cockpit and driving capabilities. Qualcomm’s new architecture enables multitasking and low-latency responsiveness across multiple sensors, cameras, and AI-driven audio features.
The platforms are safety-certified, featuring an ASIL-D standard safety island for critical Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) operations.
Snapdragon Elite platforms will be available for sampling by automakers in 2025.
In parallel, Qualcomm and Google have entered a multi-year partnership to develop a standardised framework for generative AI-enabled digital cockpits and software-defined vehicles (SDVs).
The collaboration combines the Snapdragon Digital Chassis with Google Cloud’s AI to create adaptive in-car experiences, such as voice control and real-time map updates.
Qualcomm will lead go-to-market strategies, aiming to accelerate the deployment of AI-driven in-car services and connected solutions.
Qualcomm and Google’s framework integrates Android Automotive OS, allowing automakers to leverage AI-driven customisation in cockpit features and real-time updates.
By aligning Google’s cloud capabilities with Qualcomm’s SoCs, the partnership seeks to enhance developer productivity, reduce time to market, and enable seamless upgrades for onboard and offboard vehicle connectivity.
Qualcomm’s work with Li Auto, Mercedes-Benz, and Google underscore its goal to advancing automotive digital transformation through co-innovation and software-defined architecture.
