The platform combines open-source hardware and software to simplify the development, testing, and prototyping of vehicle electronic systems.
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the Automotive Rapid Development Platform (ARDEP), which is an open-source hardware and software platform that can be used for developing vehicle electronic systems and rapid prototyping. This project is hosted on the Mercedes-Benz GitHub account and uses the Apache 2.0 licence, offering full hardware schematics, firmware, software libraries, and documentation.
The ARDEP V2 main board is equipped with the STMicroelectronics STM32G474VE microcontroller that includes an Arm Cortex-M4 core clocked at up to 170 MHz with integrated CORDIC and Filter Mathematical Accelerator (FMAC) to support various motor control and signal processing applications. It features two CAN-FD ports, a LIN transceiver, Arduino-style header connectors, on-board debug circuitry, USB Type-C connector, and protection against overvoltage, reverse current, and electrostatic discharge.
The PowerIO Shield is an optional add-on for the ARDEP platform with six high-side outputs with an ability to drive loads powered by 48 volts at up to 3 A per pin, and six 48 V digital input pins. Fault detection for overcurrent and overheating is included in the shield, with information transmitted to the main board via the I2C bus.
The software suite uses Zephyr RTOS as its core and is compatible with Unified Diagnostic Services (UDS) according to the ISO 14229 standard. Software updates can be performed via CAN and USB, and Mercedes-Benz has made available its software libraries, demos, and examples related to CAN, LIN, GPIO, ADC, DAC, UDS, and CAN/USB bridge functionality.
The project includes KiCad and Altium hardware design files, PDF schematics, firmware source code, software libraries, and documentation. In partnership with Frickly Systems GmbH, ARDEP is employed by Mercedes-Benz within its FlexCAR Rolling Chassis research project and serves as a basis for future automotive electronics systems development.
