Abstract: A vehicle access system is disclosed having the plurality of system nodes for localizing a target portable device. In addition to Passive Entry/Passive Start (PEPS) features, the vehicle access system is configured to provide a variety of additional intelligent features depending on which zone of the vehicle the target portable device is located, depending on an identity of the person carrying the target portable device, and depending on other parameters or conditions.

Abstract: A vehicle access system is disclosed having the plurality of system nodes for localizing a target portable device. The plurality of system nodes includes a master ECU that is asymmetrically installed at a predetermined location within the vehicle. The plurality of system nodes includes a plurality of slave system nodes. The plurality of slave system nodes includes an assigned system node that is asymmetrically installed at a predetermined location within the vehicle and a plurality of unassigned system nodes that are installed arbitrarily at any one of a plurality predetermined possible installation locations within the vehicle. The known installation locations of the assigned system node and the master ECU are used to self-learn the unknown installation location of each unassigned system node, for example after manufacturing assembly or repair of the vehicle access system.