With the wave of automotive intelligence sweeping the globe, a seemingly insignificant but crucial technology is quietly changing the "blood circulation system" of vehicles - the 48V electrical architecture is gradually replacing the decades old 12V system and becoming a key infrastructure supporting future automotive innovation.

The surge in electricity demand has spurred a system revolution

Modern cars are no longer just simple means of transportation. Steering by wire, ADAS advanced driving assistance, auto drive system, immersive infotainment... These innovative functions are like "power black holes", constantly devouring the on-board electric energy. The traditional 12V system is like a narrow rural road, suddenly unable to carry the traffic flow of a metropolis.

Vasanth Krishna Sista, on-site application engineer at TE Connectivity, pointed out that the surge in power demand resulted in excessive current, forcing the wiring harness to become thicker and heavier. By increasing the voltage to 48V, the current can be reduced by 75% at the same power, which means lighter wiring harnesses, lower costs, and higher system efficiency. "

Dual Evolution of Electrical Architecture

This transformation presents two complementary trends:

On the one hand, voltage upgrades bring new design considerations. The 48V system requires stricter clearance and creepage distance requirements, and key connection points need to be specially designed to prevent arc risks. Engineers address these challenges by using corrosion-resistant materials, precision sealing technology, and innovative connector designs such as multi contact terminals.

On the other hand, regional architecture is reshaping the electronic layout of the entire vehicle. Unlike the traditional ECU distribution based on functions, the new generation of cars integrates electronic control units into physical regions, which are managed by regional controllers. This architecture greatly simplifies the wiring harness layout, making maintenance more convenient.

Universal Revolution Across Power Forms

It is worth noting that the 48V transformation has a unique "power form neutrality". Whether it is gasoline powered vehicles, hybrid vehicles, or pure electric vehicles, they can all benefit equally from this upgrade. In hybrid models, the 48V system serves as the "bridge" between the 12V system and the high-voltage system; For pure electric vehicles, it can effectively share the load of high-voltage batteries and extend the range.

48V is not an upgrade to the vehicle's' muscles', but rather enhances the 'nervous system'. Sista metaphorically said, 'It makes power distribution faster and more efficient, and is the infrastructure of software defined cars.'“

Industrial chain collaboration promotes standardization

Faced with this systemic change, leading suppliers such as TE Connectivity are working closely with automakers to promote standardization of 48V interfaces. Standardization not only promotes innovation and reduces costs, but also simplifies the application of new technologies such as flat wires, bringing greater flexibility to automotive design.

With the gradual popularization of 48V systems, cars will have a stronger "electronic neural network" to provide abundant energy for future intelligent functions. This silent electrical revolution will ultimately reshape the way we interact with cars.