The transition to 48V power supply in automotive

The transition to 48V power supply in automotive

The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation as it embraces electrification and the demand for higher-efficiency power systems. A critical element in this transition is the move from the traditional 12V battery systems to 48V systems, particularly for hybrid and electric vehicles. This shift is driven by the increasing number of electrical components in vehicles and the need for enhanced energy distribution, efficiency, and weight reduction. Here, we’ll explore the benefits of the 48V system, its impact on vehicle design, and the critical role of advanced power electronics, especially DC/DC converters, in making this transition possible.

1. Why shift to 48V? The limitations of the 12V system

The 12V battery has been the automotive industry standard for decades. This voltage level has been suitable for powering basic vehicle functions, from lighting to dashboard displays. However, with the rise of hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs) and the addition of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), infotainment, and other digital features, the energy demand on automotive power systems has surged.

As the demand for power increases, the limitations of the 12V system become apparent.

• High currents: the 12V system requires larger currents to meet higher power needs, leading to increased energy losses through heat dissipation.

• Thicker wiring: high current demands necessitate thicker and heavier wiring, adding weight to the vehicle, reducing efficiency, and increasing production costs.

To address these issues, automakers are turning to 48V power systems, which offer a range of benefits in terms of efficiency, weight reduction, and cost savings.

2. The advantages of a 48V power supply system

The shift to a 48V battery system represents a fundamental change in automotive power architecture, providing several key benefits.

2.1. Improved Efficiency

The most significant advantage of a 48V system is its higher efficiency in power delivery. With a higher voltage, the 48V system requires less current to deliver the same amount of power, reducing energy losses due to heat and improving overall energy efficiency.  

2.2. Weight and cost savings

By reducing current demand, a 48V system enables the use of thinner cables.

• Weight reduction: lighter wiring reduces the vehicle’s overall weight, improving fuel efficiency and performance.

• Cost savings: the need for thinner wires translates to reduced material costs, an essential factor in mass-market automotive production.

2.3. Enhanced power capacity for modern vehicles

A 48V battery system provides sufficient power to support energy-hungry systems, like the following.

• Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS): safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance require high-power computing systems.

• Infotainment and comfort: high-resolution screens, audio systems, and air conditioning systems draw significant power, which a 48V system can handle more efficiently.

• Hybrid powertrains: mild hybrids benefit from the 48V system, as it can support regenerative braking, electric turbocharging, and low-speed electric drive, thereby enhancing fuel efficiency.

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3. The role of DC/DC converters in 48V systems

A core component in 48V automotive architecture is the DC/DC converter. While the 48V system supplies power efficiently, many automotive components still operate at lower voltages, typically 12V or 5V. To bridge this gap, efficient DC/DC converters are essential.

3.1. Converting 48V to 12V and 5V

DC/DC converters are responsible for stepping down the 48V input to lower voltages, ensuring compatibility with existing vehicle electronics. The following are some key requirements for these converters.

• High efficiency: to maximize the benefits of the 48V system, DC/DC converters must operate with minimal power loss.

• High voltage tolerance: as the main 48V battery’s voltage can fluctuate, converters need to handle voltages up to 80V to ensure stable operation.

• Compact design: space is always a premium in vehicle design, and DC/DC converters must be compact yet powerful enough to support a wide range of electronic functions.

3.2. Enabling a smooth transition

As automakers shift to 48V systems, the demand for advanced DC/DC converters will continue to grow. These converters play a pivotal role in the seamless integration of the 48V architecture into existing automotive systems, enabling automakers to adopt the benefits of a 48V system without completely overhauling vehicle electronics.

4. Applications of 48V power in modern vehicles

The 48V system is well-suited to support several critical automotive applications, particularly in hybrid and electric vehicles.  

4.1. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

ADAS features rely on multiple sensors, cameras, and computing modules, all of which require substantial power. The 48V system provides the necessary power for these advanced systems, which contribute to vehicle safety and autonomy.

4.2. Electric Power Steering (EPS) and Braking Systems

Both EPS and electronic braking systems benefit from the increased power of the 48V system, offering smoother, more reliable operation and allowing for the integration of regenerative braking.

4.3. Start-Stop and Mild Hybrid Systems

The 48V system enables efficient start-stop functions, which turn off the engine during idling to save fuel. Additionally, it supports mild hybrid systems, where the electric motor provides extra power during acceleration and recovers energy during braking.

5. Move-X role in the 48V revolution

As automotive technology continues to evolve, Move-X develops specialized power chips that support the 48V system architecture. We are investing in key areas such as:

• Power Management ICs (PMICs), designed to manage power efficiently, supporting the 48V architecture and providing reliable power conversion for automotive systems;

• DC/DC converters, facilitating seamless voltage conversion and ensuring compatibility with both 48V and traditional 12V components;

• LiDAR and ADAS support, to enhance vehicle safety and support advanced levels of autonomous driving.

Our expertise in IC design, enables us to develop solutions that meet the rigorous standards of the industry. By aligning our products with the 48V system requirements, Move-X aims to support automakers in their journey towards electrification and increased energy efficiency.  

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