Sparkle in the EIZ
Somewhere in Weissach, Porsche electronics and electrics engineers are soldering on
Lurking within the Porsche Development Centre, you’ll find a place responsible for every single bit of electrical and electronic mastery that goes into every single Porsche.
Welcome to the usually top secret Electronics Integration Centre, known as EIZ. Each new Porsche contains between 50 and 80 interlinked control units, taking care of around 6,000 functions – so when you press a button on your key to open the boot, or play your music from your phone through a Burmester speaker, these are the 570 women and men who made it happen.
They used to work across a dozen sites, but now they’re all together, with no one more than 30 metres away from someone else.
On the top floors, systems are specified and implemented; on the middle they’re tested and qualified, making the most of the neighbouring test track; and on the ground floor individual components are taken into the workshops.
They work next door to the audio acoustics engineers, who fine-tune frequencies to bring concert hall-quality sound to Porsche’s stereo systems.
It’s a place where Porsche’s engineers and mechanics mingle with external suppliers to share ideas. “The Integration Market Place is a spot where the electrical, electronics and software experts work together,” explains Uwe Michael, head of electrical and electronics development. “After all, the EIZ not only links up the technology, but the people as well. All those involved in vehicle development work together in one building.”
But don’t tell anyone – you’re not supposed to know.
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Comments (2)
6,000 functions! It's fascinating really when you consider how complicated car electronics are nowadays. Those CAN networks are constantly buzzing with data, all to ensure we enjoy a great driving experience. From unlocking the car to getting out after a session behind the wheel - completely mind boggling stuff!!
Good to celebrate the unsung boffins!