Delphi Touts Cost and Performance Advantages of New Mild-Hybrid Systems

Delphi Automotive plc says its latest integrated 48-volt mild-hybrid technology is significantly less expensive than previous 115-volt architectures.

Such mild hybrid systems would be used to supplement traditional 12-volt batteries, which would continue to be a vehicle’s main energy source. Delphi will use its expertise in engine management systems to develop the complex software and control systems for the 48-volt systems, while other suppliers will make the batteries and electric motors.

The 48-volt system could be used for automatic engine stop-start or to help boost engine output and power various accessories. The combined effect could significantly reduce fuel consumption and related carbon dioxide emissions, Delphi says, while boosting low-end torque by as much as 25%.

Several carmakers, including General Motors and Honda, have offered mild hybrid systems in recent years. But those systems tended to be more expensive and provided only small incremental gains in fuel efficiency, Delphi notes.

The company demonstrated its new mild-hybrid system, which is designed to fit into existing drivetrain architectures, last month in on a 1.6-liter engine in a Honda Civic small sedan. The scope of the 48-volt system could be expanded in the future to power additional features, including electric turbochargers and electric HVAC systems.

Delphi says two unnamed carmakers will offer the technology next year on 2018-model vehicles. The company also is expanding its software development team from 25% to about one-third of its engineering staff to meet anticipated demand.

Delphi predicts that 10% of new vehicles sold in 2025—led by strong demand in China and Europe—will be equipped with 48-volt mild-hybrid systems.