As increasing numbers of off-highway vehicles are being deployed with advanced sensors, cameras, and autonomous capabilities, the need for centralised processing is emerging as a key trend in the off-highway space. High-compute platforms – effectively next-generation Electronic Control Units (ECUs) – are emerging as essential enablers of this transition. These platforms are capable of consolidating multiple standard Electronic Control Units (ECUs) into a single high-performance processing unit, thereby improving system integration, reducing complexity, and supporting more advanced perception and autonomous functions. They may even support a shift toward ‘software-defined vehicles (SDV)’, similar to the automotive market.
High-compute platforms are typically defined by their processing power and represent a departure from traditional, distributed ECU architectures. They feature powerful CPUs or GPUs capable of running safety-critical software and supporting multiple applications simultaneously. For instance, TTControl’s FusionAI computing platform enables connectivity, multiple display control, and centralised decision-making, with all processing taking place in a single centralised unit. Similarly, the Danfoss XM100 Autonomy Controller is designed for autonomous functions, providing the processing capabilities required for sensor fusion. John Deere’s new Vision Processing Unit, unveiled at ACT Expo, is another example of an advanced computing unit engineered specifically for real-time image processing in autonomous applications. These newly developed products represent the future of mobile machines and underscore a shift towards the adoption of intelligent centralised systems.
Increased visibility at bauma 2025
At bauma 2025, the growing presence of these platforms was clear, with several examples on display, signifying their importance in driving the development of autonomous systems in off-highway.
The growth in automated and autonomous systems in the construction industry reflects a broader trend toward centralised architectures in off-highway applications. Companies like STW actively promoted this architectural shift, showing it not as an idea but a real solution to enable advanced autonomous functions while meeting cybersecurity requirements and the rugged demands in off-highway environments.
The benefits of high-compute platforms extend beyond performance. They play a key role in enabling safer machines by supporting advanced perception and real-time data processing, crucial for autonomous operation. However, the high-compute platforms already on the market are not currently applicable across all machine types. They are mostly suited to large, high-value equipment such as big excavators, where performance demands arguably justify the cost. Growth of autonomy in off-highway remains gradual, and these platforms are only being utilised in limited volumes – widespread deployment may take another decade.
What’s driving the momentum for high-compute platforms?
Labour shortages and a push for safer, more efficient operations are putting pressure on OEMs to automate machine functions and integrate perception systems. However, this factor alone will not drive demand. High-compute platforms offer the technical foundation to support this trend, but the industry’s willingness to invest and standardise will determine how quickly it scales.
What have we learned so far?
There is a crucial debate taking place around centralisation. Conversations with industry experts have revealed mixed opinions regarding the shift from decentralised architectures to adopting a centralised system. Both approaches have distinct benefits and limitations. While some manufacturers are drawn to centralisation for its potential to reduce hardware complexity by replacing the functionality of multiple standard ECUs, others favour the flexibility of a distributed network.
A decentralised system provides OEMs with modularity, enabling them to scale and customise machine functions by easily adding or removing control units. Centralised systems, on the other hand, require all vehicle intelligence to be embedded in software to enable the system to run on fewer, more powerful controllers. This is a barrier to many OEMs. To adopt this approach, OEMs must either relinquish control and partner closely with Tier 1 suppliers or invest in their own software capabilities. This could lead to pushback from manufacturers, who want to maintain full control over hardware configurations when designing and building machines.
The impact of the Cyber Resilience Act
An important consideration for suppliers of high-compute platforms – and advocates of centralised architectures – is the upcoming Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) in the EU. As off-highway machines move toward autonomy, centralised ECUs and core processing units must manage vast amounts of real-time data, making them prime targets for cyberattacks.
Is the 2028 deadline too soon? The impending deadline presents a serious challenge for OEMs. Ensuring compliance is likely to require a full overhaul of legacy systems and significant investment to redesign existing systems or integrate cybersecurity functionality into current platforms, something many OEMs are unwilling or unable to do, whether due to high costs or technical limitations.
As a result, there’s increasing momentum behind industry lobbying efforts to delay implementation and push for a more gradual, phased approach, which could slow down the adoption of more powerful ECUs/platforms in Europe.
Bottom line
High-compute platforms have the potential to make machines less complex through a centralised system, and they may also help facilitate progress towards automation and autonomy. However, the widespread adoption of these systems depends on two crucial things. First, it requires an OEM to be bold and accelerate the move toward a new electrical architecture. However, this is not a simple task, as it requires OEMs to completely overhaul the design of machines – at a significant cost – and needs a different skillset from their engineers.
Second, market demand will be critical. If there are not enough people to operate machines, then high-compute platforms will be key to enabling automation and more autonomous machines.
So, is it too early for off-highway to adopt advanced computing units and centralised systems? In our upcoming Off-highway Electronics report we will answer this question, and more. We think there is a sizable opportunity for high-compute technology, as OEMs realise the benefits of simplified architecture and the associated cost savings.
Chloe Mason is a market research analyst at Interact Analysis. With a bachelor’s degree in Criminology with Applied Quantitative Methods and a master’s degree in Social Science Research Methods from the University of Bristol, Chloe leverages strong capabilities in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies to provide actionable insights into the Commercial Vehicles sector.
To find out more about the new Interact Analysis Off-highway Electronics Report, contact Chloe Mason, Market Research Analyst.
