E/E architecture (E/E)

Electric-electronic architecture (E/E) is the concept used in automotive technology for optimal energy management with energy storage, energy supply and energy recovery. E/E systems are used in gasoline-powered motor vehicles and in electric vehicles. They supply and control the driver assistance systems with their electronic control devices, the network, the diagnostic system and the components and displays for in-vehicle infotainment( IVI).

The electrical-electronic architecture of a vehicle includes the vehicle electrics and the vehicle electronics, the networking, the interfaces and the optimal power distribution, signal distribution and data distribution between the many E/E components, between vehicles such as car-to-car communication or car-to-infrastructurecommunication. This involves powering the components, transmitting sensor and actuator values, and transmitting data to the central processing devices, computers, and control units. It supplies the processors, and without it, remote diagnostics and software updates would not be possible.

A very crucial aspect is optimal energy management. In the case of electric vehicles in particular, this includes route calculation using the GPS system to determine the optimum charging points with charging stations. Energy recovery, or recuperation, is also part of this. With this technology, energy is recovered during downhill driving and braking processes, which is then fed back into the car battery. Energy recovery during braking is also referred to as regenerative braking. Energy recovery results in better energy efficiency and less electrical energy is taken from the battery.

In addition, the E/E architecture supplies the electronic systems for driving safety. For example, the anti- lock braking system and the electronic stability program( ESP) ensure good stability during braking, in slippery conditions and overtaking.