Chinese Automakers Are Shifting Toward FI Engine, 48V, E-Axle Technologies

Beijing Motor Show 2018

At the 15th Beijing International Automotive Exhibition (short name: Auto China 2018), held in April 2018, many Chinese automakers exhibited low fuel consumption and electrified powertrain technologies. Judging from various announcements, technology is shifting from 2-in-1 (motor and gearbox) to 3-in-1 (motor, gearbox and inverter) electric axle drives. Manufacturers are also adding direct injection, high-pressure injection and 48V technologies. Some of the Chinese automakers which displayed or launched 48V systems were Geely Automobile, Dongfeng Motor, Great Wall Motor, BYD and JAC. Of which Geely and Dongfeng launched P0 48V system as low fuel consumption technology geared toward internal combustion engines. Similar technology is used by two mass-produced models Changan Automobile’s Eado and JAC’s M4. Geely unveiled the Borui GE (5.8L/100km in NEDC mode) D-segment model fitted with 48V mild hybrid system, allegedly having even better fuel efficiency than the 48V version of the Changan Eado (5.8L/100km). Meanwhile, Great Wall launched the Wey P8, mounted on the Pi4 PHEV platform, with P0 48V configuration. Apart from these technologies, there are Chinese automakers which are currently developing P2 48V systems. They are expected to be unveiled at the Shanghai motor show in 2019.

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