This paper describes the new Engine Management System (EMS) ME7.

Torque and A/F demands for modern EMS result from both, internal functions (i.e. engine start, idle speed control, catalyst heating) and external systems (i.e. driver’s request, transmission or vehicle dynamic control). With ME7 these demands are processed to the optimized actions of the actuators by a centrally coordinated torque and A/F management. The design of the functions is physically based to provide optimum portability and minimum calibration time. Examples are given for the physical manifold pressure model and the cylinder charge control of ME7 with electronic throttle control.

The real time operating system „ERCOS“ and a layer based software architecture enable the implementation of these functions in a flexible family of products for current and future systems.

Topics, such as warm-up strategies for catalysts in conventional port injection systems, gasoline direct injection systems (with their switch-over strategies between stoichiometric and stratified operation), NOx catalyst control, and the requirements of future integrated drive train management systems, all require maximum flexibility and expandability.

The introduction of the ME7 is an important step towards this future. The design represents a good basis for development sharing with customers and is also an important prerequisite for the vehicle management system CARTRONIC.