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Bosch 48V battery

Source: Bosch Announces New 48-Volt Battery Pack

Bosch expects 15 million 48V hybrids on the road by 2025.

Audi was the first automaker to change a vehicle completely to a 48V electrical system, starting with the 2017 SQ7 SUV. Most other automakers currently use a 48-volt system for their micro hybrid components but still use a conventional 12-volt battery to power vehicle systems. Even full EVs like the Tesla Model S or Chevrolet Bolt EV still keep a 12-volt battery to operate systems like the infotainment system and lights.

If 48V batteries become more mainstream, then 48-volt infotainment systems, lighting, and even high-demand comforts like heated seats that warm up faster could become more commonplace. The higher voltage means that thinner wires can be used to connect the vehicle’s systems and that saves weight and cost to automakers.

On a recent Autoline After Hours...

bwilson4web Oct 15, 2017 Read More Replies: 24

Wankle range extender

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bwilson4web Oct 15, 2017 Read More Replies: 4

Comparison Test: 2017 Toyota Prius vs 2017 Hyundai Ioniq

Ahh, the venerable Toyota Prius.

One of the pioneers of the hybrid movement – Toyota was one of few to do a hybrid at the outset, but now pretty much every manufacturer has one – it has over the years developed not necessarily a cult following (it’s way too mainstream for that) but a strong following that runs the gamut from taxi cab drivers to movie stars like Leonardo di Caprio and Cameron Diaz.

Indeed, even as the hybrid market has grown, the Prius has kind of managed to exist in a class all its own thanks to its size; many manufacturers are doing hybrid midsize sedans and crossovers, but hybrid compact hatches like this have pretty much boiled down to the Honda Insight (gone), the Prius, and the Chevrolet Volt, although that’s a range-extended EV as opposed to a more traditional hybrid as seen here.

That, however, is no longer the case as Hyundai has come forth with a very worthy competitor in the segment: the Ioniq. Like the Prius, it’s a compact hatch with a...
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Tideland Prius Oct 14, 2017 Read More Replies: 42