Cirrus Logic announced a new line of automotive‑qualified haptic drivers – the CS40L51, CS40L52 and CS40L53 – that deliver closed‑loop, low‑latency tactile feedback for steering wheels, center consoles, smart seats and other in‑cabin controls. The drivers are the company’s first products to meet the AEC‑Q100 automotive qualification, ensuring reliability under the temperature, vibration and electrical conditions required for vehicle use.
The launch marks a strategic pivot for Cirrus Logic, which has historically focused on audio and consumer mixed‑signal solutions. By entering the automotive haptic market, the company taps a sector projected to grow as manufacturers replace physical buttons with touch‑based interfaces and demand richer user experiences. Analysts estimate the global automotive haptic market could reach $2 billion by 2030, driven by advanced driver‑assist systems and infotainment upgrades. Cirrus Logic’s move positions it to capture a share of this expanding revenue stream while diversifying its customer base beyond smartphones and PCs.
Technically, the CS40L51‑53 family uses a closed‑loop architecture that measures vibration output and adjusts drive signals in real time, achieving sub‑millisecond latency and high‑fidelity feedback. The drivers support a wide frequency range and can be integrated into existing vehicle control modules with minimal redesign. Their low power consumption and small footprint make them attractive for automotive designers looking to add haptic cues without increasing cost or weight.
Vlad Bulavsky, Director of Automotive Solutions, said the new drivers “address the gap in automotive haptics by delivering realistic, responsive tactile feedback that was previously unreliable or absent in vehicles.” He added that the AEC‑Q100 qualification gives the company a competitive edge, allowing it to secure design wins in a market where reliability is paramount. The launch is expected to open a new revenue channel for Cirrus Logic, complementing its audio and professional‑audio businesses.
The automotive haptic space is competitive, with key players such as Bosch, NXP and STMicroelectronics already offering solutions. Cirrus Logic’s focus on closed‑loop performance and low latency differentiates its drivers, potentially giving it a first‑mover advantage in high‑end vehicles that prioritize user experience. As automakers accelerate the shift to digital controls, the demand for high‑quality haptic feedback is likely to rise, positioning Cirrus Logic to benefit from this trend.
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