Something like this would be a giant step forward...
http://www.analog.com/en/prod/0,2877...DSTAMP,00.html
As far as auxiliary control system hardware goes, I for one will continue working on it. The new processor is still a general-purpose computer system, and application-specific computers will always perform better at their specific task(s).
It would seem to me that the new system, if properly designed, could actually offer teams the chance to incorporate more sensors and sophisticated control algorithms (maybe even AI?) than the old system.
Just my $0.02.
I am sad to see the old system go though, especially after reverse-engineering the field control system 
__________________
CMUCam not working? Tracks sporadically? Try this instead:
http://www.falconir.com!
PM me for more information if you are interested (it's open source!).
Want the FIRST Email blasts? See here:
http://www.chiefdelphi.com/forums/sh...ad.php?t=50809
"The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheaply, we esteem too lightly; it is dearness only that gives everything its value."
-- Thomas Paine
If it's falling apart it's a mechanical problem. If it's spewing smoke it's a electrical problem.
If it's rampaging around destroying things it's a programming problem.
"All technology is run on 'Magic Smoke' contained within the device. As everyone knows, whenever the magic smoke is released, the device ceases to function."
-- Anonymous
I currently speak: English, some German, Verilog, x86 and 8051 Assembler, C, C++, VB, VB.NET, ASP, PHP, HTML, UNIX and SQL 