STMicroelectronics Stellar P3E automotive microcontroller

STMicroelectronics has launched the Stellar P3E, an automotive microcontroller (MCU) with built-in AI acceleration for automotive edge intelligence. Designed for future software-defined vehicles, the automotive microcontroller is designed to simplify multi-function integration for X-in-1 Electronic Control Units (ECUs) that reduce system cost, weight and complexity.

The microcontroller features an integrated ST Neural-ART Accelerator for real-time AI efficiency. Powered by this dedicated neural processing unit (NPU) with an advanced data-flow architecture for AI workloads, and combined with its rich sensing capabilities, the microcontroller enables smart sensing that opens the door to new applications such as virtual sensors.

The microcontroller also delivers inference processing at microsecond speeds, achieving up to 30x greater efficiency compared to traditional MCU core processors. This enables always-on, low-power artificial intelligence (AI) that can support real-time functions, including predictive maintenance and smart sensing, delivering benefits across a range of applications. For example, these capabilities can enhance charging speed and efficiency in electric vehicles and enable rapid deployment of new features, whether in the factory or in the field. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) can introduce new functions and more intuitive behaviours through different AI models, reducing the need for additional sensors, modules, wiring and integration effort.

The microcontroller’s integrated xMemory, ST’s proprietary non-volatile memory based on phase-change memory (PCM), enables dynamic expansion of software storage to accommodate new features and updates without requiring any hardware redesign.

The start of production of the Stellar P3E is planned in the fourth quarter of 2026.