Powertrain systems for passenger cars

Systems for plug-in hybrid vehicles

Function
In order to be able to drive longer distances on emissionfree electric power, the hybrid vehicle is provided with a more powerful lithium-ion battery. This can be charged before the trip straight from a mains socket by means of a battery charger. Hence the designation of the vehicle as a “plug-in hybrid”.

By comparison with an internal-combustion engine, the plug-in hybrid reduces both fuel consumption and CO₂ output by an average of 50%.

Further information

Powertrain electrification

Electric machine

The electric machine has two functions: as a motor it drives the vehicle using electricity. As a generator it helps to convert the kinetic energy generated by braking into electrical energy.

Inverter

The power electronics is the connection between the battery and the electric machine. It converts the direct current of the high-performance battery into the alternating current required to power the electric motor.

Cooperative regenerative braking system

Traditional braking maneuvers represent a waste of the kinetic energy that has only just been generated via fuel combustion.

The cooperative regenerative braking system ensures that as much braking energy as possible is recuperated and stored as electrical energy. To do this, the generator is used to slow the vehicle down. As soon as the braking requirements exceed the braking capacity of the generator, the classic wheel brakes are applied.

The cooperative regenerative braking system fulfills the same safety requirements as conventional braking systems.

High-voltage battery

The battery supplies the electric machine during electric propulsion. When driving with the combustion engine and during regenerative braking, the battery is charged by the electric machine.

Transmission technology

We develop components and modules for modern automated transmissions and enable a high driving comfort by fast and smooth gearshifts, at lowest fuel consumption and emissions.

We supply the electronic and hydraulic components for the control of automated step transmissions (AT), continuously variable transmissions (CVT), double clutch transmissions (DCT) as well as automated manual transmissions (AMT).