Bosch confirms 70 BS VI projects for OEMs in India, unveils future tech for CASE megatrend

With India Auto Inc gearing up for implementation of BS VI norms by April 2020, Tier 1 major Bosch has extensively leveraged its automotive lineage to manufacture end-to-end solutions. On the sidelines of the ongoing 15th Auto Expo Components Show, the company showcased a host of production-ready solutions pertaining to BS VI, as well as a host of new-age innovations that would power the future of automobiles.

The company says it has undertaken BS VI transition projects with 70 OEMs across the passenger and commercial vehicle categories in India and, in many cases, developed tailor-made solutions. It has also re-engineered parts such as its Lean Electronic Fuel Injection System (LEFIS) for three-wheelers which, it claims, will effectively address BS VI norms and reduce the industry’s carbon footprint over time.

Bosch now also offers a comprehensive range of engine management systems’ technologies specifically designed for two-wheelers. These include innovation in components for fuel injection and supply, air management, ignition and exhaust-gas treatment, and engine control units. Apart from being BS VI-compliant, the electronic engine control with sophisticated sensors is designed to provide significant benefits over conventional carburetor systems, making them fuel efficient and reducing up to 16 percent of CO2 emissions.

According to Markus Heyn, member of the board of management, Robert Bosch, "With the transition to BS VI, we have been at the forefront in partnering with our customers in delivering cutting edge solutions to meet the mandate."

Focused on connected, autonomous, safe and electric megatrends
In the areas of future technologies, the company, like many others, has its focus set on the connected, autonomous, safe and electric (CASE) phenomenon. On the electromobility front,

Bosch showcased a host of electrified system solutions to go beyond the internal system of a vehicle. Its electric powertrain system, the company says, is engineered for efficiency, economy, and dynamics.

The company has developed inverters and motors for light commercial vehicle applications with performance requirements ranging between 1 to 20kW. The motor which fits pick-up trucks in the US to offer a hybrid vehicle solution is also suitable for mini buses and LCVs in India, between 4-7T capacity wherein it has already integrated the entire system and is now looking at battery swap solutions to reduce operating costs for fleet customers.

"The future of mobility in India will be clean, efficient, safe and connected. We not only focus on creating an automated, electrified and connected mobility ecosystem but also strive towards making vehicles a smart and safe companion in the future. Bosch is committed to working towards unleashing the full potential in the Indian mobility space by combining its global expertise and innovative technology in order to provide the best of solutions to end customers," added Heyn.

Hybridisation solutions with 48V systems      
The company also showcased its 48V hybrid system which is apt for small passenger cars with complete recharging through recuperation. The system aids functions like advanced start-stop, regenerative braking and coasting while improves efficiency and driving experience

Bosch says that when it considers electrification, it includes mild-hybrids, strong-hybrids and full-electric solutions. While it has products which are technically viable, it is exploring their feasibility in the Indian market.

According to Soumitra Bhattacharya, managing director, Bosch and president, Bosch Group in India, “We are actively participating in shaping the future of mobility in India through our technology agnostic approach. With a customer focused approach, we actively support the Government’s initiatives towards the auto sector with an India first objective.”

With driver assistance becoming of increasing importance in the industry's accord of attaining safer mobilty and reduced fatalities, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) too were in ample display by Bosch. It is leveraging data fusion and smartphone integration which makes it possible to support the driver in complex and critical traffic situations. Also, a host of sensors such as corner radars, near-range cameras help in functions such as autonomous emergency braking and electronic stability program (ESP), both of which are expected to get mandatory in Indian vehicles by 2022-23. Apart from these, functions such as predictive emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and traffic jam assist too can greatly enhance driving safety and comfort.

Interior monitoring systems
The company also showcased its driver- and occupant-monitoring systems wherein artificial intelligence (AI) draws conclusions from a camera mounted at the steering wheel to observe the driver and a camera mounted near the IRVM to look at all occupants of the vehicle. The system constantly keeps a check on driver or occupant dizziness, or distraction from the road in cases such as use of mobile phone and raises alerts.

Bosch says these are cost-effective solutions which can be easily integrated into regular cars, and will also suffice for ADAS and autonomous driving technologies.

3D displays
As bigger displays increasingly become the prime customer engagement features of cockpits in cars, Bosch has developed a 3D display that works on passive 3D depth technology. The depth of field is utilised to make the driver grasp the important visual information faster by bringing them in the forefront and put out an alert.

Convenience charging for EVs
By the application of new technologies like AI, Bosch demonstrated its 'Convenience Charging' for EVs by using the ecosystem judiciously to ensure that wait times are minimal and vehicle performance is also at its peak. The technology also uses algorithms to determine the best possible charging stations and timings for fleet operators.

The company says it is targeting the point of inflection between new technologies and mobility to bring more convenience to customers and reduce TCO.

Bosch's Battery-in-the-Cloud
Furthermore, its 'Battery-in-the-Cloud' Concept looks at battery as one of the core elements of electric vehicles. By connectivity, Bosch is able to collect data and by the use of AI and other learning algorithms, the company can keep a check on battery health to increase the life of the battery in an EV. Battery-in-the-cloud already deployed in China and fleets are already using it.