For volume applications electrified powertrains are a prerequisite to meet future fuel consumption limits. The range will include parallel hybrids, 48V- or High voltage Mild- or Full hybrids, up to Serial hybrids. In the first configurations the ICE is the main propulsion, requiring the whole engine speed and load range including the transient operation. The competition of different technologies and variabilities, from variable compression ratio to variable valve lift, advanced boosting technologies, high pressure injection at the gasoline engine, as well as add on measures such as water injection require a modular common engine family architecture with common parts and common machining and assembly concepts. At serial hybrid applications the vehicle is generally electrically driven and the ICE provides power to drive the generator, either exclusively or supporting a plug-in battery charging concept. As the ICE is not mechanically coupled to the drive train, a reduction of the operation range to preferred load and speed ranges with high efficiency is feasible.
The webinar shows the chances of a modular technology approach, with focus on a balanced overall complexity of the powertrain with increasing electrical power in regard of Cost and CO2-reduction.