JLR tackles weight with structural electronics

Ashutosh Tomar, electrical research technical manager at Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) said he has absolute confidence in the potential of structural electronics (SE) now being pioneered by the company. Dubbed LESA (Lightweight Electronics in Simplified Architecture), the technology is expected in upcoming JLR models, though its use in the next-generation Jaguar XJ to be launched in 2020 has not been confirmed.

JLR is completing a successful R&D program into printed SE, initially to introduce curved dashboard screens. The company claims an industry first that has the potential to radically alter vehicle interiors, with other applications forthcoming. SE is not a new technology. Decades ago the aerospace industry was considering it as part of aircraft-surface morphing capability to adapt to varying flight conditions.