NXP Semiconductors launched its third-generation S32R47 imaging radar processors, designed for Level 2+ to Level 4 autonomous driving. Built using 16 nm FinFET technology, these processors offer up to twice the processing power of their predecessors, with improved power efficiency and reduced system costs. Paired with NXP’s mmWave radar transceivers, power management, and in-vehicle networking solutions, the S32R47 meets ISO 26262 ASIL B(D) functional safety standards, paving the way for next-generation autonomous vehicles.
What to expect?
The S32R47 processors enable advanced radar performance critical for software-defined vehicles (SDVs). According to Yole Intelligence’s 2024 report, by 2029, 40% of new passenger cars will feature Level 2+/Level 3 autonomy, with a growing number reaching Level 4. The S32R47 supports this trend by processing over three times more antenna channels in real-time, delivering higher resolution, sensitivity, and dynamic range. This enables sophisticated use cases like detecting vulnerable road users (VRUs) and lost cargo, even in complex urban environments.
With a 38% smaller IC footprint, the S32R47 integrates a high-performance multi-core radar processing system and AI/ML support for enhanced Direction of Arrival (DoA) processing and object classification. It generates denser point clouds for AI-based perception systems, improving object separability, detection reliability, and classification accuracy. Compared to alternatives, NXP’s solution achieves similar or better performance with up to 89% fewer antenna channels, reducing system size, cost, and power consumption.
“NXP’s S32R47 processors enable advanced imaging radar capabilities while meeting OEMs’ stringent cost and power targets for mass production,” said Meindert van den Beld, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Radar & ADAS. The processors support features like navigation on autopilot and fully automated parking, aligning with the demands of tomorrow’s SDVs.
Already sampling to key customers, the S32R47 builds on NXP’s scalable radar portfolio, offering software reuse, OTA updates, and compliance with the latest cybersecurity standards.