STMicroelectronics has announced the introduction of xMemory, an extensible memory technology for its Stellar range of automotive microcontrollers aimed at addressing the growing challenges in developing software-defined vehicles and next-generation electric vehicle architectures. The new technology is expected to enter production in late 2025, starting with the Stellar P6 MCUs, which are designed for use in electric drivetrains and centralised vehicle control platforms.
The xMemory solution is based on ST’s proprietary Phase-Change Memory (PCM) technology, which allows memory to be extended during vehicle development or even while in service. As automotive software becomes more complex due to artificial intelligence features, regulatory demands, and over-the-air updates, the flexibility to scale memory post-deployment offers a practical advantage. Traditionally, carmakers have faced costly trade-offs when selecting microcontrollers with fixed memory configurations early in the design process. xMemory changes this by enabling engineers to select a single platform that can evolve with the software it supports.
This development also simplifies the supply chain and reduces the need for hardware redesigns, which often lead to added costs and time delays. Instead of over-provisioning memory to account for future requirements, engineers can start with a scalable base and expand only when necessary. The integrated PCM technology provides benefits in density, power efficiency, and reliability over competing memory types like MRAM or RRAM. With fabrication at 18nm and 28nm nodes, it also delivers a smaller physical footprint, which is valuable for compact control units.
Rather than treating the microcontroller as a static component, ST’s approach supports ongoing innovation and software extension. The Stellar MCUs, which will now incorporate this capability, are tailored for domain and zone controllers in modern vehicle architectures. These controllers are key to consolidating electronic control units and supporting the shift towards centralised vehicle systems.
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