The new power-sipping Atom processor line is already poised to become the standard in next-generation ultra-mobile laptops like the Eee PC 900 and MSI's Wind. But that hasn't stopped Intel from pushing its tiny 45nm, low-voltage darling into more mobile territory. Smartphone integration is in the works, but in the meantime, Intel is pushing Atom into a decidedly larger mobile platform: the automobile.

Pairing with Intel, device software optimization heavyweight Wind River recently announced an in-vehicle "infotainment platform" based on an automotive-optimized Linux platform tailored specifically for Intel's Atom processor. The idea is to create a single, open-source platform that will allow developers to create software that can be scaled across components in different vehicles, and create a broader range of consumer electronics integration options, while still allowing auto makers to differentiate the systems with their own configurations and branding.

X-bit Labs is reporting that BMW, Bosch, Delphi, and Magneti Marelli are all on board with the idea, which is a good thing, because Wind River plans to unleash the code on the Moblin.org Linux-centric auto-enthusiast community sometime in August.