High Voltage Auto Systems Coming to a Car Near You
Kirt's Cogitations™ #126

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12 V electrical systems in your car are about to become a thing of the past. With many of the typical car's systems being slated for electrification, the planned 42 V architecture is needed for ruggedness and efficiency. Drive-by-wire steering and braking, transmission clutches, variable valve timing, and active suspensions are among the items on the drawing board now. Exotic schemes are envisioned such as stopping the engine at stop lights or stop signs, then instantly restarting when the gas pedal is pushed (lower emissions than idling). Higher voltages mean smaller gauges for the hundreds of feet of wiring in cars, which means less weight, smaller connectors, etc. Analog Devices, Infineon, and Motorola are among the companies introducing new qualified devices into the market. I wonder if these cars will qualify as hybrids?