invehicle

Invehicle refers to technologies, devices, and systems located inside a motor vehicle that support information, entertainment, navigation, comfort, safety, and connectivity. The term covers standalone components embedded in the vehicle and software that operates across the vehicle’s internal networks, often interfacing with cloud services and external devices when connected.

Common in-vehicle subsystems include infotainment systems (IVI), instrument clusters, head-up displays, telematics units, and rear-seat entertainment. These components are connected via vehicle networks such as CAN, LIN, FlexRay, and Automotive Ethernet, enabling data exchange, diagnostic access, and, increasingly, over-the-air software updates.

Functions encompass navigation, media playback, voice control, smartphone integration (CarPlay, Android Auto), climate controls, and vehicle- or driver-assistance features. When paired with onboard sensors and cameras, in-vehicle systems support features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and collision warning, as well as driver monitoring and driver-initiated safety alerts.

Development and operation are guided by functional-safety and cybersecurity standards. ISO 26262 governs safety-related software and hardware lifecycle, while ISO/SAE 21434 addresses automotive cybersecurity. Regional regulations, such as UNECE WP.29, prescribe cybersecurity and software update requirements, and AUTOSAR provides a common software architecture for modularity.

Current trends include vehicle electrification, OTA software updates, advanced connectivity (including 5G-based C-V2X), and enhanced privacy protections. The invehicle domain faces challenges related to cybersecurity, data privacy, usability, and ensuring safety-critical functions remain reliable under software faults and vehicle-network variability.