Global automotive manufacturers are converging on a hybrid domain-plus-zonal (D+Z) control architecture for next-generation vehicles, representing a significant evolution in electrification and electric (EE) architecture. This emerging standard, likely to appear in production vehicles between 2028-2029, is becoming evident at Computex 2025, where major information and communications technology (ICT) players are showcasing their automotive solutions.
Industry transition
Leading automakers worldwide have begun issuing requests for information (RFI) and requests for quotation (RFQ) to assess supplier capabilities in this space. Taiwan's electronics manufacturers, including Foxconn Precision Industry, are reportedly developing new vehicle platforms based on this mixed D+Z approach, with German automakers also pursuing similar designs.
The evolution marks a clear progression from distributed electronic control units (ECUs) to domain controllers, and now toward this hybrid architecture. While Tesla continues its distinctive path with a centralized high-performance computing (HPC) approach supplemented by limited domain controllers, mainstream automakers and premium Chinese brands are adopting the D+Z combination.
Semiconductor landscape
International semiconductor companies, including Infineon, NXP, Texas Instruments, Renesas, Onsemi, and STMicroelectronics are driving this transition, with Taiwanese firms MediaTek and Realtek making rapid advances. Production of these advanced chips is expected to utilize TSMC, Vanguard International Semiconductor, and UMC foundries.
Industry experts note that distinguishing between domain and zonal controllers involves more than physical characteristics, as zonal controllers essentially represent functional integration of domain controllers, making text-based descriptions insufficient for clear differentiation.
Article translated by Vyra Wu and edited by Jerry Chen
