RBEI to develop second-gen petrol ECU for low-cost bikes

Bangalore-based Robert Bosch Engineering and Business Solutions Ltd (RBEI), the engineering and IT business solution arm of Robert Bosch, is developing a second-generation petrol Electronic Control Unit (ECUs) suited to low-cost motorcycles manufactured in developing markets like India. The company is understood to be developing such an ECU primarily for below 200cc motorcycles.

Speaking to Autocar Professional, R K Shenoy, senior vice-president, RBEI, said the company had developed its first-generation petrol ECU three years ago. Currently, this ECU is being used in the 200cc Bajaj KTM Duke.

It was fully designed by RBEI’s Bangalore division to support single- and two-cylinder petrol engines. It controls the fuel injection into the inlet manifold for a Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI) system based on air change in the cylinder.

Shenoy said the ECU enables precise fuel injection that improves the fuel economy of the vehicle. He added that riding quality is also improved due to the faster accelerated response in comparison to conventional carburetor systems.

One of the key features of this ECU is that it reduces harmful emissions and also supports an oxygen sensor for closed looped air-fuel control and catalyst ageing detection. Physically, the small form factor helps the ECU to be easily mounted, there saving space. The lesser pin count (56 pins) with the single connector was developed keeping in mind emerging market needs.

Other product highlights include improved cold start, vehicle speed and engine speed limitation, safety features like side-stand sensor, rollover sensor and support to the anti-theft device.

Now using the frugal engineering mantra, RBEI is in the process of developing the next-generation petrol ECU and making it viable for manufacturers of low-cost motorcycles. “We are employing frugal engineering to bring down the cost,” said Shenoy.