Infineon Technologies AG and Flex are intensifying their collaboration to accelerate software-defined vehicles (SDVs). At CES 2026, the two companies are presenting a new zone controller development kit: a modular reference design for zone control units (ZCUs) that significantly simplifies and shortens the development of modern E/E architectures.
The development kit is based on a modular system of reusable components with around 30 different parts. Developers can use it to flexibly configure various ZCU implementations and move from concept to series production in short development cycles.
Zone control units play a central role in next-generation E/E architectures, as they connect and supply power to numerous different peripheral devices. Since these peripheral devices vary depending on the vehicle platform and model, different requirements are placed on the ZCUs. Existing solutions are often not optimally tailored to the respective application.
The modular platform concept from Infineon and Flex addresses precisely this challenge. It allows for precise adaptation to individual vehicle architectures while offering sufficient scope for future functional requirements. This reduces both the bill of materials (BOM) and development times.
Among other things, the design platform enables rapid evaluation of more than 50 power distribution channels, over 40 connectivity channels and ten load control channels. A plug-on module with two microcontrollers is available for powerful ZCU variants with high input and output density. Customers can start with this superset and then reduce the design to two cost-effective MCUs or even a single MCU, depending on the range of functions and budget. This approach follows the principle of ‘start big, then optimise’ without compromising on quality or development speed.
The zone controller development kit supports all essential functions of modern zone controllers, including I²t monitoring (A²s), overcurrent and overvoltage protection, capacitive load switching, reverse polarity protection, secure data routing with hardware accelerators, A/B swap for over-the-air updates, and comprehensive cybersecurity features.
The pre-validated hardware combines automotive semiconductors from Infineon with Flex’s design, integration and industrialisation expertise. Among other things, it uses AURIX™ microcontrollers, OPTIREG™ power supplies, PROFET™ and SPOC™ smart power switches, and MOTIX™ motor control solutions. The software stack also integrates solutions from Vector and draws on established tools for embedded software, testing and system integration.
Availability
The zone controller development kit is now available for pre-order. Further information is available at
https://www.infineon.com/evaluation-board/FlexZoneXTM
and from the respective Infineon sales representative. Shipping is scheduled for the end of the first quarter of 2026. Interested parties can also get to know the system in the Infineon Meeting Room LVCC West W307 at CES 2026.
