·With the urgent demand for improving vehicle performance and efficiency, innovation and investment in 48V technology have been driven
·Emerging power standards are expected to drive advancements in automotive functionality, including turbocharging, regenerative braking, infotainment systems, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
·In order to accelerate the adoption of 48V technology, reduce its cost and complexity, modular design, agile development methods, and industry cooperation are needed
Lyle, Illinois - October 15, 2024- Molex, a global leader in the electronics industry and innovator in connectivity technology, has released a report exploring the rapid rise of 48V electrical system technology, which has the potential to significantly improve automotive performance, efficiency, functionality, and comfort. Molex's report "Refactoring the Future of Automobiles: Introducing 48V Power Systems" explores the development trend of 48V technology and provides practical recommendations for automotive manufacturers and product design engineers to help them cope with the opportunities and challenges they may encounter when transitioning from traditional 12V electrical systems to 48V electrical systems.
Scott Whicker, Senior Vice President and President of Molex's Mobility Solutions Division, said, "The prospects for 48V technology are very broad, but achieving this technology requires cooperation from the entire industry to overcome technical barriers and establish industry standards. We are working together with partners throughout the automotive ecosystem to accelerate the adoption of 48V technology. With concerted efforts, we can optimize system integration, reduce development costs, accelerate the time to market of power system components and connectivity solutions, and ensure reliable and efficient power transmission
Unlock new vehicle features
The 48V technology significantly improves the performance and functionality of automobiles by increasing the system voltage by four times. These improvements include electric turbocharging, regenerative braking, infotainment systems, and temperature pre adjustment for auxiliary battery charging. The 48V system not only improves the efficiency of electric components, but also achieves more sensitive climate control, excellent steering response, and precise engine temperature management. In addition, the system can enhance the power efficiency of key sensors, actuators, and control units, providing support for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and paving the way for fully autonomous driving.
The 48V multifunctional system is suitable for both traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and electric vehicles. Molex's report points out that the 48V system has significant potential for profitable growth in the current and future automotive market, and emphasizes the demand for modular 48V platforms. These platforms have flexible architectures that can be customized for 48V systems based on the size, type, and power requirements of vehicles. However, the high voltage level of the 48V system may lead to an increase in electromagnetic interference (EMI), making it more difficult to shield interference than low-voltage systems. Meanwhile, wiring and harness design are also crucial, as larger currents and higher voltage requirements can bring challenges in terms of weight, space, and cost.
Promote the development of connector design, materials, and manufacturing technology
The 48V electrical system requires the industry to improve the performance and reliability of connectors, and to use advanced materials with excellent electrical and thermal performance. Molex's report provides insights into improving contact coating technology, aimed at preventing corrosion, maintaining optimal conductivity, and extending the lifespan of connectors. Innovation in regional architecture design is crucial for optimizing power distribution, reducing wiring complexity, and improving system reliability. The precision manufacturing of automated assembly processes also helps ensure consistent production quality and efficiency.
The MX150 medium voltage connector series produced by Molex demonstrates the company's commitment to meeting the ever-changing demands of the automotive industry. The MX150 is designed for efficient assembly and reduced packaging size, providing a robust and reliable solution for 48V wiring applications. This series can withstand voltages up to 60V, allowing for the use of finer wires to reduce vehicle weight and costs while maintaining high performance.
