NXP Integrates Ceva AI DSP Into S32Z2 and S32E2 Processors for Software-Defined Vehicles

As vehicles evolve into software-defined platforms, the demand for real-time processing, safety, and intelligence is accelerating. Ceva, Inc. (NASDAQ: CEVA), the leading licensor of silicon and software IP for the Smart Edge, announced that NXP® Semiconductors has integrated Ceva's AI DSP into its S32Z2 and S32E2 processors, designed to power the next generation of real-time domain and zonal control modules in software-defined vehicles.

According to ResearchAndMarkets, the global software-defined vehicle market is projected to grow from $213.5 billion in 2024 to over $1.2 trillion by 2030, at a CAGR of 34%⁽¹⁾, as automakers adopt centralised compute architectures and monetise software-driven features. This transformation is fueling demand for real-time processors like NXP's S32Z2 and S32E2, which provide the compute efficiency needed for high-performance, deterministic, safety-critical control with AI inference in a multi-application environment.

At the core of this strategy, NXP's S32Z2 and S32E2 families leverage Ceva's SensPro AI DSP technology to deliver real-time decision-making and intelligent perception, enabling vehicles to interpret their environment and respond with precision. Applications such as predictive analytics for extended battery lifespan, predictive vehicle maintenance, driver monitoring and in-cabin voice-controlled interfaces can all be enabled through Ceva's SensPro AI DSP.

"The S32Z2 and S32E2 series are designed to meet the stringent performance, safety, and scalability requirements of next-generation vehicles," said Robert Moran, Vice President and General Manager, Automotive Processors at NXP. "By integrating Ceva's AI DSP, we deliver the machine learning and AI capabilities our customers need to accelerate innovation in real-time compute applications for software-defined vehicles."

"As vehicles become increasingly connected and intelligent, the ability to process sensor data and apply AI in real time is critical," said Amir Panush, Chief Executive Officer of Ceva. "Our collaboration with NXP brings the power of our AI DSP platform to one of the most advanced automotive real-time processors in the industry, helping accelerate the transition to software-defined vehicles."

Ceva's SensPro AI DSP architecture includes a family of DSP/ML processors that are optimised for sensor processing, AI inference, and control algorithms, delivering exceptional performance per watt within the stringent power and safety requirements of automotive applications.