Body Control Modules

Body Control Modules are central elements in a classic vehicle architecture

They combine several functions in one housing and control practically all the vehicle's electronic basis, comfort and security functions.

Functional Diversity Cleverly Bundled Together

Body Control Modules (BCMs) always control numerous vehicle functions. Which functions are bundled together in any given module depends on the respective vehicle architecture and on the partitioning of the various functions.

Tied into the electronics architecture of the vehicle as a whole, the BCMs reduce the number of plug-in connections and cable harnesses required, while at the same time offering maximum reliability and economy.

Installed in the engine compartment, BCMs control, for example, headlights, turn indicators and the windshield washer system. In the trunk they are responsible for the rear lighting system, the rear window wiper and the door lock assist.

Central BCMs bundle together the control of the locking system, the Immobilizer, the Climate Control Module and the Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

Benefits & Features

  • Central integration point of body functions in the vehicle
  • Highly standardized hardware and software components improve quality, reduce time-to-market and costs
  • Facilitates model-driven development
  • Enables design collaboration between customers, competitors and 3rd party suppliers
  • Decreases development efforts for standard body functions (e.g. flasher, wiper, light router)
  • Harmonizes process methods and tools
  • Flexible E/E architectures
  • Classical distributed architectures with BCMs/ Integrated BCMs with standalone or integrated Gateways
  • Domain architectures with Body Domain Controllers
  • Intermediate step towards a zonal architecture (enhanced BCM)
  • Reflects all market and customer specific requirements in technology and product strategy
  • Integrated power distribution and management option
  • Customers benefit from Continental’s long history and know-how in supplying body and network electronics as well as cross-divisional knowledge

  • External lighting
  • Interior lighting
  • Windshield wipers
  • Windshield washer system
  • Central locking system
  • Climate control system
  • Seat adjustment
  • RF reception
  • Immobilizer
  • Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
  • Passive Start and Entry Systems (PASE)
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System
  • Energy Management

Continental offers the full range - from platform-based Body Control Modules to customized and highly integrated solutions for the most diverse vehicle architectures and OEM strategies.

Off-the-Shelf Body Control Module

  • Body Control Unit responsible for all basic and standard body functions of a car
  • Platform for Low-Cost Body Control Modules
  • Standardized product concept
  • High integration content
  • Fits to the requirements of diversified markets


Integrated Body Control Module

  • Central point for integration of body-related vehicle functions
  • Can be assembled in different vehicle locations to operate area specific functions
  • Designed with highly standardized hardware and software platform components


Power Body Control Module

  • Body Control Module combined with facilities for relays and fuses
  • Hosting body functions and power distribution functions
  • Fulfills requirements for engine compartment assembly

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