Audi has announced plans to upgrade their vehicle electric system to 48-volt to be used in some of their newer models.
Audi recently presented 48-volt technology for the RS 5 TDI concept. This new electric system will cater to the extra power demands of the latest technology that the automaker intends to incorporate in its future offerings, for which the 12-volt systems are insufficient.
The press release of Audi states that the 48-volt system delivers a new electrically powered compressor and latest storage technologies. It also uses thinner cables compared to its 12-volt counterpart. A compact lithium ion battery supplies 48-volt energy when the engine is off. This battery operates alongside a DC/DC converter that incorporates this system with the existing 12-volt system, making any new vehicle sporting this technology a mild hybrid.
Audi claims that the new system will bring fuel savings of 0.4 liters per 100 kilometers.
When approached for comment, Audi Board Member for Technical Development, Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg said, “We are using the full bandwidth of electrification in our drive principles strategy. Running part of the vehicle electrical system at 48 volts plays a central role in this. It enables us to make more energy available. That paves the way for new technologies with which we can make our cars more sporty, more efficient and more convenient to use.”
Let’s see how soon this technology makes its way to commercial vehicles from the German maker.
