With the global commercial vehicle (CV) industry going through a technology revolution with the onset of autonomous vehicles and a host of other advancements to enhance efficiency, safety, comfort and connectivity, German supplier giant Bosch is stepping up its focus on the CV segment in an attempt to support customers with a bundle of futuristic solutions and technologies.
While Bosch’s primary focus area has been in the area of powertrain technology with its globally-acclaimed common-rail systems, it also has a strong portfolio of products that offer connectivity, safety and driver assistance solutions for vehicles. In line with its increasing focus on the CV space and consolidating its offerings for the segment, Bosch has created a new division to explore opportunities in the Commercial Vehicle and Off-Road industry globally.
In an exclusive interview to MOTORINDIA, Mr. Navin Paul, Executive Vice President – Mobility Solutions, OE Sales, Bosch Ltd., says: “The CV segment is very important for Bosch in India and it has been one of our focus areas right from our initial days. While we have been largely focusing on powertrain solutions, our scope of engagement in CVs will increase with offerings in the areas of steering systems, safety systems, driver assistance functions and connectivity solutions, which is why we have formed a new division focusing on the opportunities in the CV domain”.
“Within the powertrain segment, we offer solutions to meet Euro VI norms, apart from hybrid and electric powertrains, which are currently popular in passenger cars. However, hybrids and electrics have been gaining popularity in CVs as well, especially in buses, since they consume less fuel resulting in better fuel economy”, adds Mr. Paul.
Beyond powertrain, there are two other technologies Bosch offers in the areas of vehicle connectivity and steering systems.
Connectivity
Bosch’s connectivity control unit (CCU) is a central connectivity solution for commercial vehicles. The CCU communicates via a wireless module equipped with its own SIM card and can determine the vehicle’s position using GPS if desired. It is available both as original equipment and as a retrofit solution.
Steering Systems
Bosch offers electro-hydraulic solutions for CV steering: Servotwin improves the efficiency and convenience of heavy commercial vehicles. “The electro-hydraulic steering system consumes less fuel than purely hydraulic steering. Servotwin reliably compensates for potholes and provides the driver with a good grip on the pavement. Thanks to its electronic interface, it also forms the basis for driver assistance functions such as lane-keep assist. This is a big enabler as it enhances driving comfort, improves passenger safety and reduces fuel consumption”, he explains.
Technology-driver: Legislation or Market
While legislation has always been an enabler to expedite the adoption of new technology in any market, discussions and deliberations as to whether legislations should drive change or the market itself is usually a chicken and egg story. The Bosch EVP’s concludes with his opinion: “Whether it is the legislation or the market which paves the way for technology, in our opinion, we at Bosch are ready to support our customers with suitable applications and fit-for-market products so that they are able to introduce them in time.”