Vehicle mount computers, also known as in-vehicle information processing systems or in-vehicle computing platforms, are electronic computer systems installed inside vehicles to process and control the vehicle and its auxiliary equipment (such as sensors, navigation systems, entertainment devices, etc.). They receive data from various parts of the vehicle, process and analyze it through built-in software algorithms, and then control the vehicle according to pre-set programs. For example, vehicle mount computers may adjust the air conditioning settings based on input from temperature sensors or activate the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) based on the vehicle's speed and brake pedal position. Vehicle mount computers greatly enhance the level of vehicle intelligence, making driving safer, more convenient, and enriching the driving experience.
Based on functions and uses, vehicle mount computers mainly include main computers, dedicated in-vehicle computers, portable in-vehicle computers, and computers with specific functions. The main computer serves as the core of the vehicle mount computer system, responsible for processing sensor data and integrating information from other electronic control modules, such as the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to optimize performance through precise engine parameter control. Dedicated in-vehicle computers are designed for specific models, integrating all the functions of home computers, such as internet access, entertainment, navigation, and featuring visual reversing, fault detection, and other specialized functions. Portable vehicle mount computers offer an interface and touch-based operating system similar to navigation devices, supporting wireless internet and multiple entertainment functions, suitable for users with less demanding interface requirements. Additionally, vehicle mount computers include instrument computers and ABS computers, which are responsible for controlling the dashboard display, brake systems, and other crucial functions to ensure driving safety.
The development of the vehicle mount computer industry can be traced back to the late 1970s. Early vehicle mount computers were primarily used in high-end vehicles with relatively limited functions, covering some basic vehicle management functions. During the 1980s and 1990s, with advancements in microelectronics technology, vehicle mount computers began to take on more complex tasks such as engine control and the ABS system. Entering the 21st century, especially after 2000, the explosive growth of information technology and network technology brought unprecedented development opportunities for vehicle mount computers. In-vehicle infotainment systems and in-vehicle communication systems became new growth points, making the connection between vehicles and external networks possible. After 2010, with the popularization of smartphones and the enhanced computing power of Electronic Control Units (ECUs), vehicle mount computers began to develop towards integration and intelligence. In recent years, the integration of artificial intelligence, big data, and cloud computing has enabled vehicle mount computers to achieve more advanced autonomous driving functions, becoming an indispensable core component of intelligent vehicles. It is expected that in the future, with the development of 5G communication technology and the Internet of Vehicles technology, vehicle mount computers will achieve more innovative functions, bringing new breakthroughs for autonomous driving and the IoV.