This week 200 experts discussed the implementation of alternative engine concepts in motor vehicles. The introduction of the Porsche 918 Spyder raised the bar even higher. Leading OEMs and suppliers then concentrated on detailed solutions in the areas of electrics/electronics for hybrid, plug-in-hybrid and electric vehicles, electric charging, management of electric energy, performance electronics, low voltage accumulators and battery management for electric energy storage, market development, highly automated driving and development models. International interest in the conference has risen further. Intensive discussions took place in both of the parallel meetings right up until the end.

Mr Soczka-Guth from Daimler showed in his lecture that cell chemistry in batteries is not witchcraft. Mrs Rothgang from ISEA in Aachen presented the latest results on service life distribution. Many more questions engaged the experts: what more can be done to lower vehicle consumption even further? When will the 48V on-board system arrive? The lectures haggled over every gram of CO2. The New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) is the measure of all things in this respect. The meetings regarding performance electronics as well as the demands on the electrical system in connection with the subject of “automated driving” were well attended too. The exhibition was fully booked out for the first time this year.

The subject of hybridisation remains exciting and the great interest and the never-ending discussions mean we can expect many submissions for the next conference on 22. – 23.4.2015 in Bad Boll.