BMW, Tesla using NVIDIA's Tegra for in-car systems
updated 11:15 am EST, Tue January 4, 2011
BMW, Mini and Tesla Model S get NVIDIA tech
Both BMW and Tesla Motors today both said they would use NVIDIA's Tegra chips for their in-car systems. The faster ARM processor gives them support for much higher resolution screens, up to the large 17-inch display in the Tesla Model S, while still providing 3D visuals and responsive touchscreen input on the Tesla car. Roots in the mobile world also make it well suited to GPS navigation, including real-time traffic.
The BMW implementation links with the Connected system on both BMWs and Minis and thus provides the front end for iPhone and iPod integration. Tesla's system isn't yet as tightly integrated with Apple but is also a near-complete replacement for the center stack as well as the instrument cluster.
BMW's 3-, 5-, 7- and X-series cars will get the Tegra hardware in future models, as will the Mini Cooper. Tesla's system is destined chiefly for the Model S and will be ready for the 2012 model year.
