LISLE, IL—Automotive engineers have been intrigued by the benefits of 48-volt electrical systems for more than a decade. However, despite numerous advantages, the auto industry has been slow to adopt the technology.
A new report from Molex LLC, a leading supplier of connectors, adapters and cable accessories, examines the challenges of transitioning from traditional 12- to 48-volt architectures.
According to “Rewiring the Road: Harnessing the Power of 48V,” the higher powered technology can improve vehicle performance, efficiency, functionality and comfort. But, to unlock these benefits, significant hurdles need to be cleared, including requirements for upfront investments in components, system integration and compatibility with current electrical systems.
“48V technology holds great promise, but the path forward requires industry-wide collaboration to overcome technical obstacles and establish industry standards,” says Scott Whicker, senior vice president and president of transportation innovative solutions at Molex. “We are working with partners across the automotive ecosystem to accelerate 48V adoption.
“Together, we can optimize system integration, reduce development costs, and speed time to market for power system components and connectivity [systems], ensuring reliable and efficient power delivery,” explains Whicker. He claims that 48-volt systems are adaptable with both traditional internal combustion engine vehicles and fully electric models.
By quadrupling system voltage, the delivery of higher currents also increases power efficiencies in the critical sensors, actuators and control units needed for advanced driver assistance systems, while paving the way for fully autonomous driving.
However, the higher voltage levels in 48-volt systems can lead to increased electromagnetic interference (EMI), making it more challenging to shield against EMI than lower voltage systems. Equally important are wiring and harness designs, as higher current and voltage requirements introduce challenges related to weight, space and cost.
Higher powered electrical systems will require heightened connector performance and reliability, as well as advanced materials with superior electrical and thermal properties. Design innovations, such as zonal architectures, will be critical for improving power distribution, lowering wiring complexity and boosting system reliability.
