Thomas Pels

The tailored powertrain for 48 V – options for the gasoline engine – chance for future Diesel engines

The next steps of fuel consumption legislation will require a combination of engine measures with various electrification measures, dependent on the vehicle segment, to reduce the energy demand targets of the vehicle. The introduction of 48V electrical architecture provides increased electric recuperation and limited electric driving at lower cost compared to full hybrid solutions, offering considerable fuel reduction potential in the WLTC.

Micro, Mild, and Full Hybrids

This article classifies hybrid vehicles into micro, mild and full hybrids based on powertrain functionalities. All hybrid powertrain functions can be allocated to three functional groups: Energy management, torque management and electric propulsion. Micro hybrid functionalities are related to energy management only whereas mild hybrids cover energy management and torque management. Powertrain functions out of all three groups are relevant for full hybrids. The basic functionalities are described in detail and examples of various hybrid powertrain architectures are outlined. This incorporates parallel, serial and power split configurations. Finally the impact of the architecture and the technical solution on the classification of hybrids is discussed. Keywords: hybrid; electric powertrain; micro hybrid; mild hybrid; full hybrid; energy management; torque management; electric propulsion; stops smart charging; torque management ; regenerative brake; torque assist; boost; electric propulsion; pure electric drive; charge sustaining