Global automotive technology supplier Marelli has introduced a new generation of port fuel injection engine control units designed to support vehicles running on gasoline, flex-fuel and compressed natural gas (CNG). The company aims to address the needs of markets where internal combustion engines continue to play a significant role in the automotive industry.
The newly launched ECUs are intended for use in regions such as India, Brazil and the Europe-Middle East-Africa (EMEA) market. These regions continue to rely heavily on conventional powertrains while also exploring alternative fuel options such as ethanol blends and CNG.
One of the main advantages of the new ECU platform is its compatibility with multiple fuel types. Vehicles equipped with these systems can operate using gasoline as well as alternative fuels like ethanol-based flex fuels and compressed natural gas. This flexibility allows automakers to develop vehicles that can adapt to different fuel infrastructures across global markets.
Flex-fuel vehicles are particularly common in countries like Brazil, where ethanol is widely used as an automotive fuel. Meanwhile, CNG vehicles are popular in markets such as India because they offer lower running costs and reduced emissions compared with traditional petrol engines.
The ECU platform has been designed with advanced hardware and computing capabilities to manage modern engine systems efficiently. It is built around Infineon’s AURIX TC3x automotive microcontroller, a high-performance processor widely used in vehicle electronics.
This processor allows the ECU to handle complex tasks such as fuel injection control, engine monitoring and emission management. The system also meets international automotive functional safety standards, ensuring reliable performance in demanding driving conditions.
Another important feature of the ECU system is its ability to control multiple engine components simultaneously. The unit includes several input and output channels that manage different engine operations including injectors, valves and electronic actuators.
The system can support up to eight gasoline injector drivers along with four CNG injector drivers within the same architecture. This capability enables accurate control of fuel delivery and combustion, which helps improve engine efficiency and reduce emissions.
Marelli has also designed the ECU with flexible software architecture. Automakers can customize the system according to their vehicle requirements, allowing easier calibration and integration into different engine configurations.
In addition, the platform supports firmware over-the-air updates. This feature allows vehicle software to be updated remotely without requiring a visit to a service center. Remote software updates are becoming increasingly common as vehicles adopt more connected technologies.
The new ECU platform also includes advanced diagnostic capabilities. Built-in monitoring systems track engine performance and detect potential faults early, helping maintain optimal operation. The system supports onboard diagnostic standards used in modern vehicles, enabling efficient troubleshooting and maintenance.
To ensure security and regulatory compliance, the ECU incorporates protection against unauthorized software modifications. Anti-tampering mechanisms help prevent illegal tuning that could affect emissions or engine performance.
Although the automotive industry is gradually shifting toward electrification, internal combustion engines and alternative fuel technologies remain important in many markets. Manufacturers continue to develop solutions that improve efficiency and reduce emissions while meeting regional energy requirements.
Marelli’s new engine control units are designed to support this transition by offering flexible solutions for multiple fuel types. By combining advanced hardware, intelligent software and support for different fuels, the new ECU platform helps automakers build efficient and adaptable vehicles.
The launch reflects Marelli’s strategy to support diverse powertrain technologies as the global automotive sector moves toward a future that includes both electrified and alternative fuel vehicles.
