Bosch’s Vision for Commercial Vehicles for Today and Tomorrow
In the rapidly evolving landscape of commercial vehicles, Bosch stands at the forefront of innovation, shaping the future of freight transport with cutting-edge solutions.
As the industry shifts towards software-defined vehicles and sustainable transportation, Bosch’s comprehensive suite of products and services provides the essential tools for truck manufacturers, freight forwarders, and logistics companies to thrive.
At IAA Transportation 2024, Bosch will showcase its latest advancements, driving the commercial vehicle industry towards a greener, safer, and more connected future.
Powertrains for a Sustainable Tomorrow
Electric powertrains are becoming a cornerstone of sustainable freight transport, and Bosch is leading the charge with its advanced electrification solutions. The Bosch e-axle, designed for both light and heavy commercial vehicles, exemplifies the company’s commitment to efficiency and versatility. With the ability to integrate seamlessly into vehicles up to 7.5 metric tons, this solution ensures that fleet operators can continue servicing urban areas, including low-emission zones, without compromising on performance.
One of the standout features of Bosch’s electric powertrains is their application in heavy-duty, purely battery-electric commercial vehicles. These vehicles, powered by an 800-volt system and silicon carbide chips, offer extended ranges and shorter charging cycles, making long-distance goods transport not only feasible but also efficient.
Fuel Cell Technology Powering Long-Distance Journeys
For longer journeys and maximum payloads, Bosch’s fuel cell technology presents a climate-neutral alternative to traditional powertrains. The company’s 200-kilowatt fuel-cell system, already in large-scale production, is a testament to Bosch’s innovation in this space. Looking ahead, Bosch is developing the Fuel Cell Power Module Compact 300, which promises even greater efficiency with its increased output of 300 kilowatts and more compact design.
Bosch’s fuel cell solutions are complemented by individual system components and submodules, including components for hydrogen storage systems. This versatility allows Bosch to cater to the specific needs of each customer, providing tailored solutions that meet the demands of the modern commercial vehicle industry.
Hydrogen Engines a Bridge to the Future
Bosch’s hydrogen engine technology offers another viable solution for climate-friendly freight transport. Initially targeted for use in heavy trucks, hydrogen engines represent a significant step forward in the transition to sustainable transportation. With the European Union recognizing this powertrain as climate-neutral in early 2024, Bosch is poised to make a substantial impact on the industry.
Drawing from established diesel and natural-gas engine technologies, Bosch’s hydrogen engines allow manufacturers to leverage existing development and production infrastructure. The company is developing key components for these engines, including a ground-breaking injector for direct injection, which is set to launch in 2026. The first hydrogen engines equipped with Bosch’s intake manifold injection are expected to hit the market as early as 2025.
H2 Tank Systems for Safe and Efficient Hydrogen Storage
Storing hydrogen safely and efficiently under high pressure is a critical challenge for the widespread adoption of hydrogen-powered vehicles. Bosch, through ITK Engineering GmbH, addresses this challenge by offering comprehensive support and advice throughout the entire development process of H2 tank systems.
Utilizing digital twins for physical simulation, ITK Engineering ensures maximum safety and efficiency in system design, paving the way for the future of hydrogen-powered freight transport.
Connectivity Solutions Enhancing Efficiency and Safety
In today’s digital age, connectivity is key to improving the efficiency and safety of commercial vehicles. Bosch’s Automotive Connectivity Hub is a game-changer in this regard, offering a solution that can be retrofitted to any vehicle, regardless of the manufacturer. This hub provides access to the vehicle’s operating and diagnostic data, enabling a wide range of data-based services.
One such service, the Retrofit Efficiency module, allows fleet operators to optimize vehicle speed based on empirical data stored in a central database, potentially reducing fuel consumption by up to 4%. Additionally, the Vehicle Health service monitors and evaluates vehicle error codes in real-time, identifying potential issues before they lead to unexpected breakdowns, thus improving fleet reliability and operational efficiency.
Battery in the Cloud to Maximize Electric Vehicle Performance
For electric vehicles, Bosch’s Battery in the Cloud service offers a significant boost in performance and longevity. By continuously monitoring battery status and usage, this service can predict aging and defects, optimizing rapid-charging behaviour to extend battery life.
This not only enhances the reliability of electric commercial vehicles but also contributes to their overall cost-effectiveness.
Digital Fuel Twin are Embracing Alternative Fuels
As fleet operators explore alternative fuels like Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), Bosch’s Digital Fuel Twin provides a valuable tool for verifying CO2 reduction in a fully automated, audit-certified manner.
This innovative solution helps operators transition to greener fuels without sacrificing performance or efficiency.
Fully Electric Power Steering is the Future of Heavy Trucks
Bosch’s fully electric power steering system, known as ServoE, is set to revolutionize steering in heavy trucks. This electromechanical system not only simplifies assembly by eliminating the need for oil but also offers a power-on-demand function that promotes eco-friendly driving.
The flexibility to tailor steering function and feel to customer requirements ensures that the ServoE system meets the diverse needs of the commercial vehicle market.
Servotwin to Combine Hydraulics with Intelligence
The Servotwin electrohydraulic steering system, designed for heavy commercial vehicles, represents the perfect blend of hydraulic power and intelligent software.
This system supports advanced driver assistance functions up to SAE Level 4, including automated driving, making it a critical component of the future of autonomous commercial vehicles.
Rear-Axle Steering for Enhancing Manoeuvrability
Bosch’s electrohydraulic rear-axle steering system is a stand-alone solution that offers significant benefits for heavy trucks with multiple axles.
By enabling the steering of additional axles, this system reduces the turning radius and tire wear, contributing to both safety and efficiency. Its compact design makes it adaptable to all powertrain types, further enhancing its appeal to manufacturers.
The Next Generation of Vehicle Intelligence
As commercial vehicles transition to software-defined platforms, Bosch Engineering provides customized consulting and engineering services to streamline this process.
By focusing on the development of new electrical and electronic architectures, Bosch helps manufacturers reduce integration costs and manage the complexity of modern vehicle systems.
Cloud-Based Diagnostics for Pre-Emptive Maintenance
In a world where vehicle uptime is critical, Bosch’s cloud-based diagnostic solutions are a game-changer. ETAS, a Bosch subsidiary, has developed a platform that integrates diagnostics and repair capabilities into the vehicle development process.
This ensures that service solutions are available before production begins, significantly reducing time to market for new technologies like fuel cells.
Connected Map Services and Logistics Platforms
Bosch’s connected map services leverage swarm data from vehicles and infrastructure to provide real-time information about driving conditions.
This data enhances driver assistance functions and supports the development of new mobility services, making driving safer and more convenient for all road users.
L.OS Logistics Platform for Centralized Solutions for Freight Forwarders
Bosch’s L.OS digital service platform addresses the complex challenges faced by the logistics industry by offering a marketplace for centralized access to various digital solutions. By integrating these services, Bosch’s platform simplifies logistics management, reduces IT project costs, and enhances fleet management capabilities.
The partnership with Amazon Web Services further strengthens the platform’s offering, making it an indispensable tool for the modern logistics industry.
Smart Eyes and Radar Systems Enhancing Object Detection
Bosch’s third-generation multifunction camera and fifth-generation radar systems are at the forefront of road safety technology.
These systems provide precise object detection, even in challenging conditions, supporting functions like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance. By meeting and exceeding legal requirements, Bosch’s safety technologies ensure that commercial vehicles operate safely and efficiently on today’s roads.
A Bright Future for Freight Transport
Bosch’s comprehensive suite of products and services is not just responding to the current demands of the commercial vehicle industry—it’s actively shaping the future.
With a focus on sustainability, safety, and connectivity, Bosch is paving the way for a new era of freight transport, where efficiency and innovation go hand in hand.
