The state of automotive electronics is projected for the year 2000, by extrapolating from what has happened historically, and by seeking the collective wisdom of participants in a two-day conference on automotive electronics, which we held to gather information for this paper. Three historical periods are described: the first from around 1965 to 1980 when automotive electronics consisted mainly of stand-alone components such as simple electronic ignition modules; the second from 1975 to 1990, which is being dominated by special purpose independent systems like electronic engine controls; and a third from 1985 to 2000 in which automotive electronic systems are beginning to be integrated to include several vehicle functions such as traction control combined with anti-lock braking.
Features which we expect to see in cars of the year 2000 are described, and the emerging technologies which will make these features possible are examined. Challenges facing the electronics industry, which will result from the automotive application of these technologies, are discussed.
