- Presentations at the VDA Congress highlight development advances for drive electrification, safety, and connected driving
- Smart networking of electronics and tires enhances safety and efficiency
These leaps in development are based on the digitization of automotive technology. In his keynote speech, Ralf Lenninger, head of system development, innovation and strategy in Continental's Interior division, talks not only about the third wave of in-car digitization but also the changing requirements facing the automotive industry: "We have to find new business models and forms of collaboration and learn how to deal with the increasing complexity. This is why it is more important than ever that we in the automotive industry join forces."
In his presentation, "The Next Slowdown Is Sure to Come" Dr. Oliver Maiwald, Head of Technology & Innovations at Continental, Powertrain Division, discusses the efficient use of 48 volt electrification in the vehicle and the advantages of intelligent connected energy management. Continental's 48 volt Eco Drive technology, due to enter series production in 2016, enables reductions in consumption and thus CO2 reductions of around 21 percent in real urban traffic conditions. It also enables the optimization of exhaust gas emissions on diesel and gasoline drives. "Our electrically heated EMICAT catalyst for 48 volt electrical systems allows highly efficient operating strategies to be implemented for the internal combustion engine while at the same time ensuring compliance with emissions limits in real driving situations." His presentation also looks at the analysis of new electrical consumers on the vehicle's on-board power supply.
In their presentation "Potential and Limits of Interaction Between Vehicle Control Systems and Tire Design", Alfred Eckert, head of future development in Continental's Chassis & Safety division, and Professor Dr. Burkhard Wies, head of car tire development, highlight the tremendous potential still offered by in-vehicle connectivity. "The knowledge of tire physics and ultimately the various properties of an individual tire form the backbone of further measures for optimizing ABS and ESC systems," explains Alfred Eckert. Professor Wies draws the attention of the industry experts gathered in Ludwigsburg to the testing that needs to be undertaken. "Thanks to our AIBA (Automated Indoor Braking Analyzer) test facility, we can simulate even very minor effects and ensure that these are taken into account in hardware and software development for future brake systems."
In Ludwigsburg, Continental is also showcasing its highly integrated MK C1 brake system, the ultra-high-performance tire Continental SportContact 6, the award-winning winter tire Continental WinterContact TS 850 P, and the next generation of the cost-effective 48 volt mild hybrid technology. Visitors will also be able to learn about the dynamic electronic horizon. The eHorizon supplies information from the cloud about the route ahead. This will enable every networked vehicle to make driving safer, more efficient, and more comfortable, not only for itself but also for the vehicles traveling behind.
