Silicon takes over

Semiconductor suppliers are altering materials so automakers can add functions and improve reliability.

Just as the compositions used in steel and plastics continually evolve to meet changing needs of automakers, the materials used to create electronic systems are also changing. Though the volumes of these substances are extremely tiny compared to those of steel and plastic, silicon and other materials play a significant role in automotive features and functions.

When device suppliers alter the composition of semiconductors, it can lead to lower prices and improved quality. That's helping developers broaden the usage of high-frequency technologies like radar and gain the lower power consumption of LEDs.