In Zonal Control topologies, the endpoints are remote boards that are MCU-light or MCU-less, often based on Remote Control Protocol (RCP) via Ethernet 10BaseT1S, CAN FD Light, or other lower-cost protocols. Control is implemented by the Zonal Control Unit MCU or by Zonal I/O aggregators. This architecture allows OEMs to save money by reducing the number of MCUs. These boards contain mainly actuators and sensors. From a software perspective, standardization reduces complexity, improves system scalability, and enables upgradability and cloud access, supporting the concept of the Software Defined Vehicle (SDV).