Infineon Secures #1 Spot in Automotive Ethernet with Strategic Marvell Acquisition

Accelerating the Transition to Software-Defined Vehicles

Infineon Technologies has officially closed the acquisition of Marvell Technology’s automotive Ethernet business, a move that strategically positions the company at the forefront of the software-defined vehicle (SDV) revolution. The transaction, finalized on August 14, 2025, underscores Infineon’s ambition to provide the most comprehensive system solutions for the next generation of connected, autonomous, and electrified vehicles.

During an online media briefing, Infineon’s senior leaders highlighted how this acquisition strengthens its portfolio, deepens customer relationships, and accelerates innovation in vehicle electronics architectures. With this step, Infineon is not only expanding its leadership in automotive semiconductors but also creating synergies between its powerful microcontroller portfolio and Marvell’s proven Ethernet expertise.

Building the Backbone of Software-Defined Vehicles

The automotive industry is undergoing a structural shift as vehicles evolve into software-defined platforms. Unlike traditional cars, SDVs rely heavily on electronic/electrical (E/E) architectures built on three pillars: safe and secure computing, high-speed in-vehicle networking, and intelligent power distribution. Ethernet technology is emerging as the key differentiator in this transformation, replacing legacy protocols and providing the high-bandwidth, real-time communication needed for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), autonomous driving, and immersive infotainment.

Infineon’s expanded portfolio now integrates its AURIX™ family of microcontrollers with a full range of automotive Ethernet solutions. This combined capability enables faster data processing at the edge, reliable zonal architectures, and secure connectivity across the vehicle. “The marriage of microcontrollers and Ethernet is a game-changer for software-defined vehicles. Together, they simplify design complexity and empower automakers to deliver safe, secure, and connected mobility experiences,” emphasized Infineon executives.

The BRIGHTLANE™ Advantage

At the core of the acquisition is the BRIGHTLANE™ Ethernet product family, which includes a complete suite of PHYs, switches, and bridges tailored to meet evolving SDV requirements. Covering data rates from 100 Mbps to 25 Gbps, BRIGHTLANE products are designed to enable semi-zonal, full-zonal, and eventually Ethernet end-to-end architectures.

These solutions bring several unique advantages:

• Scalability from entry-level ECUs to high-performance central compute platforms.
• Security with integrated MACsec, IPsec, and advanced filtering for reliable communication.
• Flexibility through camera and display bridges that shorten cable lengths, reduce weight, and enable resource sharing across applications.
• Future-readiness, as OEMs transition to camera-over-Ethernet (CoE) and display-over-Ethernet (DoE) by the next decade.

Already trusted by over 45 OEMs globally—including 8 of the world’s top 10 automakers—BRIGHTLANE has established itself as a market leader. By integrating this technology into its broader portfolio, Infineon now commands a #1 position in automotive Ethernet, complementing its leadership in power semiconductors, microcontrollers, and sensors.

Synergies Driving Growth

Infineon’s executives explained that the acquisition is not just about portfolio expansion but about delivering system-level innovation. By combining MCUs with Ethernet components, Infineon can offer scalable solutions for every part of the vehicle—from safety-critical braking and steering systems to high-speed infotainment and ADAS domains.

For automakers, the benefits are clear:

• Simplified design processes with pre-integrated hardware and software.
• R&D synergies that reduce time-to-market.
• Cost efficiencies through optimized bill of materials.
• Robust security and reliability to meet ASIL standards for safety-critical applications.

The addressable market opportunity is also significant. With the rise of SDVs, the number of Ethernet ports per vehicle is expected to increase sharply—up to 70 by 2030—with backbone speeds reaching 10–25 Gbps. Each car could require 10–20 Ethernet PHYs, multiple zonal switches, and up to six MCUs in electric drivetrains. Infineon estimates the total bill of materials (BoM) per SDV could exceed $280 per vehicle in components directly addressed by its portfolio.

Responding to Market Dynamics

The transition to SDVs is reshaping consumer expectations as well. Buyers increasingly demand advanced connectivity, seamless infotainment, and the ability to unlock new features through over-the-air updates. For automakers, SDVs offer opportunities to monetize software functions, standardize hardware, and streamline development lifecycles.

Infineon is aligning its strategy with these dynamics by providing solutions that are not only high-performance but also developer-friendly. Initiatives like Drive Core simplify software development on Infineon platforms, offering pre-integrated tools, operating systems, and code examples. This helps customers shift focus from infrastructure complexity to creating innovative applications.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, Infineon expects automotive Ethernet to become the dominant in-vehicle networking technology by 2028, enabling full-scale SDV adoption. Semi-zonal architectures are already being deployed, while full-zonal solutions with camera-over-Ethernet will scale toward the end of the decade. By 2032, Ethernet end-to-end (EE2E) architectures will allow seamless software compatibility across systems, supporting even higher levels of autonomy and digital services.

Infineon is determined to lead this transition. With a now unmatched breadth of offerings—including microcontrollers, power solutions, sensors, and the newly acquired Ethernet portfolio—the company is positioned as a one-stop shop for SDV electronics. This integrated approach not only secures Infineon’s leadership in automotive semiconductors but also ensures that its customers can accelerate their journey toward safer, smarter, and greener mobility.

Conclusion

Infineon’s acquisition of Marvell’s automotive Ethernet business is a decisive step in shaping the future of mobility. By combining computing, connectivity, and power solutions under one roof, Infineon has strengthened its position as a partner of choice for automakers navigating the complex shift to software-defined vehicles. The move reflects a broader industry trajectory—where vehicles are no longer defined by hardware alone but by the intelligence, flexibility, and security that software and advanced semiconductors make possible.