Column: Electric Vehicles
Modular approach solves automotive 48V electrification challenges
By Patrick Wadden, Global Vice President of Automotive Business,qq` and Nicolas Richard, Director of Automotive Business, Vicor
M
akers of cars, trucks, buses and motorcycles are rapidly electrifying their vehicles to
increase the fuel efficiency of internal
combustion engines and reduce CO2 emissions. Tere are many electrification choices, but most opt for a 48V mild- hybrid system rather than a full-hybrid powertrain. In the mild-hybrid system, a 48V
battery is added alongside the traditional 12V battery; see Figure 1. Tis increases power capacity by 4 x (P = V • I), which can be used for heavier loads, such as the catalytic converter at start-up. To increase vehicle performance, the 48V system can power a hybrid motor that is used for faster, smoother acceleration whilst saving fuel. Te additional power can also support steering, braking and suspension systems, plus safety, entertainment and comfort features. A 48V mild-hybrid system provides
a way to rapidly introduce new vehicles with lower emissions, longer range and higher gas mileage. It also delivers new and exciting design options for higher performance and features, while still reducing CO2
emissions. However, there’s a general hesitancy
to modify the long-standing 12V power delivery network (PDN). Changes oſten require new technologies that need extensive testing, and may require new suppliers who can deliver the automotive industry’s required high safety and quality standards.
18 February 2023
www.electronicsworld.com
Figure 1: Powertrain for 48V applications
Figure 2: Automotive centralised architecture
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