48-volt hybrid systems are becoming a trending topic in the automotive industry. While most hybrid cars on the market today feature complex high-voltage systems, manufacturers are now highlighting the benefits of more cost-effective systems based on 48 volts.
These so-called mild hybrids offer similar advantages to existing hybrid systems by using the electric motor for starting, coasting, and braking, thereby reducing both fuel consumption and emissions. However, the trade-off for reducing the system voltage is a reduction in power. Most mild hybrids have access to around 10 to 20 kW of electric power, which is 5 to 10 times less than that of a typical full hybrid. Despite this, it is sufficient to handle most situations where the combustion engine performs poorly on its own.
This technology can, of course, also be applied to other machines, such as loaders, dumpers, and forklifts. As with cars, the engine in these machines must be oversized to handle tasks that are rarely performed. An oversized engine is particularly inefficient when working with intermittent duty cycles, which is common with Non-Road Mobile Machinery (NRMM).
By applying 48V hybrid technology, the diesel engine can be sized for the average workload, with the electric system providing assistance when needed. As automakers know, it takes some finesse to get these two power sources to work together seamlessly. Additionally, new challenges arise with each new application of this technology.