DENSO, BlackBerry roll out integrated automotive HMI system – Technologist

Today, vehicles are equipped with multiple HMI (Huan Machine Interface) systems, which require several device-specific operating systems to work in unison. Because the operating systems are independently controlled by multiple microcontrollers, it has not been possible to unite and coordinate them to display content and sound in a uniform way.

That is until now. DENSO Corporation and BlackBerry has announced that it has shipped the first integrated HMI digital cockpit system in new 2020 SUBARU Legacy and Outback vehicles that will come out this Autumn in the United States.

Called the DENSO Harmony Call and developed by BlackBerry and DENSO in collaboration with SUBARU, the new digital cockpit solution uses BlackBerry QNX Hypervisor (virtualisation) technology to enable integrated control of in-vehicle HMI systems. First revealed at CES in 2018, this blend of advanced software and human interaction creates a seamless automotive user experience as data-driven connected vehicles become our reality.

The BlackBerry QNX Hypervisor technology enables the independence of several operating systems with different characteristics and controls the integration with one microcomputer.

Creating value

“With the rapid development of technology for self-driving and electric vehicles, the value of cars is about to change significantly,” said Atsushi Hayashida, director and head of the Cockpit Systems Business Unit at DENSO. “By collaborating with other companies and research institutes, refining the technology and accelerating product and service delivery to help manufacturers deliver next generation vehicles, DENSO is creating new value for the global smart mobility society.”

Valued at US$48.3 billion, DENSO develops advanced technology and components for nearly every vehicle make and model on the road today. It produces thermal, powertrain, mobility, electrification, and electronic systems in 221 facilities across 35 countries.

Software is king

“Software is the driving force in next-generation automotive design,” John Wall, SVP and general manager of BlackBerry QNX said. “As cars become more data-driven and automated, they demand functional, secure and trusted in-vehicle software. A leader in automotive technology.”

He added that BlackBerry is excited to bring one of the world’s first integrated digital cockpit platforms to market with DENSO in SUBARU’s latest vehicles and “helping manufacturers to take advantage of a significant industry trend – the exploding demand for a safe, seamless, digital in-car experience.”

Paving the way for future cars

SUBARU is the first vehicle manufacturer in the world to commercially deploy the jointly developed digital cockpit platform, featuring BlackBerry QNX Hypervisor.

“SUBARU is synonymous with innovation, quality and building trusted vehicles that customers can rely on,” said Tatsuya Okuno, vice president and chief general manager of Engineering DIV.1 at SUBARU. “We are excited to introduce the integrated HMI cockpit systems in the all-new 2020 SUBARU Legacy and Outback (U.S. model). This is a world-first in new automotive digital experience seamlessly combines the cluster, head unit, infotainment system, and entertainment screens with the class-leading safety SUBARU is known for. We are excited to roll-out the Harmony Core HMI technology in future car models.”

Meanwhile from September 2019, automobile manufacturers around the world will sequentially launch new car models with the integrated HMI.