Bosch to Form Integrated Powertrain Unit with "Electromobility" Tech

Robert Bosch GmbH plans to combine its existing Gasoline Systems and Diesel Systems groups with its “electromobility” activities under a new Powertrain Solutions division that will be launched at the start of 2018.

The integrated Powertrain division will develop technologies for passenger vehicles powered by combustion engines, hybrid drivetrains and full electric systems. More details will be announced in coming months. 

Headcount is expected to remain about the same under the reorganization, which will integrate 88,000 employees at more than 60 locations in 25 countries. The total includes 1,800 engineers and experts working on electromobility systems.

Bosch estimates that by 2025 there will be 20 million new hybrid and electric vehicles worldwide along with some 85 million new gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles. The company says there is “no doubt” that electrified systems will be the long-term solution, but it points out the difficulty in forecasting the timing, form and impact of the change.

Bosch says the new structure will allow it to develop various technologies in parallel—with greater collaboration between units—and quickly adapt to changing market dynamics. In addition to individual components, the company wants to increasingly offer complete powertrain systems.

Bosch currently invests €400 million ($428 million) annually in electromobility programs, most of which is for battery research and development. The company says it has won more than 30 electromobility-related orders from global carmakers.