HELLA Becomes First Company to Develop Battery Solutions for Mild Hybrid Vehicles

Hella has become one of the first companies to offer pathbreaking battery module solutions which can be used in mild hybrid vehicles. The company which specializes in automotive lighting and electronics solutions develops and makes products which can support all stages of automotive electrification. The new range of Dual Voltage Battery Management System and PowerPack 48 Volt products can help vehicles save 5 to 6 grams of CO₂ per kilometer.

Hella developed the Dual Voltage Battery Management System for vehicles in the compact and mid-range class. Using the system makes it possible to convert vehicles with internal combustion engines to mild hybrid vehicles. It makes it possible to accommodate the conventional, separate core elements like the 48-volt battery, 12-volt battery and voltage transformer (DC-DC converter) within a single product that takes up the package space of a conventional lead-acid battery. Thus, the system can be easily integrated into the existing vehicle architecture.

Another advantage the new system offers is that the Dual Voltage Battery Management System eliminates the need for a lead-acid battery in the car. The innovative system comprises lithium-ion cells that can be intelligently switched depending on the application. Hence, the capacity can be used specifically either in the 12-volt or 48-volt electrical system of the vehicle.

Hella designed the PowerPack 48 Volt system for vehicles belonging to higher power rating classes. This system combines a 48-volt lithium-ion battery pack including battery management and a DC-DC converter.

In addition to the 12-volt battery, the PowerPack 48 also is drawn into the vehicle. It supports hybrid functions like recuperation of energy while braking and active coasting during which the internal combustion engine is switched off while driving as well as other functions that make the ride more comfortable for vehicles belonging to the luxury class. These functions include ambient lighting, automatic climate control and active chassis control.

The new products are mainly meant for the growing market of 48-volt mild hybrids.

According to studies conducted by market research firm, IHS Markit, the annual share of new registrations in this segment is expected to increase globally from 6 million in 2020 to 35 million in 2030.

Hella makes products for all types of drives ranging from battery sensor systems for micro-hybrids (start/stop automatic system), to power electronics for mild hybrids, and battery electronics for high-voltage applications in all-electric vehicles.