What is FlexRay?

The data exchange between the numerous control devices, sensors and actuators in automobiles is mainly carried out via CAN networks. However, the introduction of the new x-by-wire systems results in increased requirements especially with regard to error tolerance and time-determinism of message transmission. FlexRay fulfills these increased requirements by message transmission in fixed time slots and by fault-tolerant and redundant message transmission on two channels, so it is also ideally suited for active safety systems (e.g. airbags).

Today, the carmakers BMW, DaimlerChrysler, General Motors, Volkswagen as well as the companies Bosch, Freescale and Philips Semiconductors are represented as core partners in the FlexRay consortium which is responsible for the development of the FlexRay standard.