Tobias KoobTeam Leader
RACE - Revolutionary Approach Controlling Energy
RACE - Revolutionary Approach Controlling Energy
Innovative Solution for Vehicle Power Supply Systems
Challenges
The automotive industry is undergoing significant transformations and facing substantial challenges in 2025. New technologies such as drive-by-wire and highly automated driving are gaining importance, resulting in increased energy demands. Successfully navigating these challenges requires innovative energy management solutions and a holistic approach.
Objective
RACE focuses on the development of a 48V software-defined power supply system that seamlessly integrates software and hardware. This technology enables more efficient, sustainable and powerful vehicle architectures, aligning with the demands of modern mobility.
RACE explanatory video
RACE explanatory video
EDAG & Bosch Partnership
EDAG and Bosch are collaborating to advance the development of innovative energy management systems. This partnership aims to strengthen technological leadership in the field of future-oriented, distributed energy systems and set new standards in the automotive industry. Together, EDAG and Bosch are shaping the new era of mobility.
With their expertise in vehicle development, software and energy innovations, both companies are not only creating a stable, safe and efficient power supply for vehicles, but also a distinct competitive advantage for their customers. Additionally, this concept provides the foundation for integrating vehicle energy management systems into a smart grid.
RACE – The technology in detail
Intelligent Energy Management
At the center of the RACE Power Supply is an intelligent energy management system that combines software and hardware elements.
- Power Distribution
Two redundant high-voltage-to-low-voltage converters supply the entire electrical system, dynamically distributing power as needed. Energy is exchanged between the two electrical systems (depicted in orange and blue in the image) via the Energy Link – a switchable connection that allows for flexible and efficient use of the two available energy sources.
- Consumer Control
Another innovation is that consumers within the vehicle report their current power demand to the energy management system. Based on this information, intelligent algorithms calculate the available power and provide specific power approvals to the respective consumers.
Additionally, traditional 12V consumers are supported by zonal 48V/12V voltage converters, ensuring seamless integration of existing components into the modern energy architecture.
Minimization of Hardware
The parallel development of hardware and software enables targeted reduction of hardware costs and complexity using software functions.
Redundant Voltage Converters in Parallel Operation
In normal operation, both high-voltage-to-low-voltage converters work in parallel. However, in the event of a fault, each converter can independently supply the entire vehicle electrical system. This approach avoids cost-intensive oversizing through targeted load control and prioritization of consumers, while maintaining full redundancy.
Intelligent Energy Monitoring
Continuous monitoring of current flows in the vehicle electrical system, along with thermal models of cables and components, provides valuable information to the energy management system. This allows the reduction of cable cross-sections and power switches (MOSFETs) to be designed closer to their load limits - without compromising safety.
Hardware provided by Bosch
Cost-Efficient Power Storage
There is no need for an expensive 48V battery. Instead, a powerful supercapacitor is used, offering a compact, cost-effective, and long-lasting alternative.
News and events
Event | Date | Location | More information |
|---|---|---|---|
CES 2025 | 07.01.2025 - 10.01.2025 | USA, Las Vegas | |
Auto Shanghai | 23.04.2025 – 02.05.2025 | China, Shanghai | |
IAA Mobility | 09.09.2025 - 14.09.2025 | Germany, Munich |
Event | Date | Country | Location | More information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
CES 2025 | 07.01.2025 - 10.01.2025 | USA | Las Vegas | |
Auto Shanghai | 23.04.2025 – 02.05.2025 | China | Shanghai | |
IAA Mobility | 09.09.2025 - 14.09.2025 | Germany | Munich |
Johannes MeyrSoftware-System Engineer