Kodiak incorporates NXP chip technology to help operate AVs

Kodiak Robotics is using NXP Semiconductors’ processors and in-vehicle networking interfaces in its autonomous truck system. This includes NXP’s S32G3 vehicle network processor, S32K3 microcontroller, the VR5510 multi-channel high-voltage power management integrated circuit (PMIC), and the PF53 AIL D core supply regulator.

“Driverless trucks require powerful and reliable safety-critical computing platforms which meet our rigorous safety standards,” said Don Burnette, founder and CEO, Kodiak. “By incorporating NXP’s automotive solutions into the Kodiak Driver, we are positioned to incorporate the highest classification of automotive safety into our autonomous system more efficiently, and at scale.”

Each of NXP’s systems is integrating with Kodiak’s Actuation Control Engine (ACE), a computer that manages the truck’s actuation and works independently from the main autonomy system. More specifically, the ACE is the failsafe for the Kodiak Driver system that can stop the truck if a safety-critical component of the Kodiak Driver or vehicle platform fails.

The S32G3 component is a performance and reliability processor that will actuate controls like redundant braking, steering, and throttle. The S32K3 microcontroller chips work as safety co-processors and allow for power distribution, battery charging, and safety HMI interfaces.  The VR5510 PMIC provides high-performance power generation, including functional safety mechanisms to monitor output voltages. And finally, the PF53 ASIL D core supply regulator delivers power performance for the S32G3 core that handles vehicle controls.

Additionally, NXP’s solutions are compliant with the ISO 26262 safety integrity level ASIL-D, which corresponds to a rate of fewer than 10 failures in one billion hours of operation.