BATTERY REVIVER
INNOVATIVE EVS
AUTONOMOUS WORK VEHICLE
Bosch has introduced a highvoltage battery repair solution for electric and hybrid vehicles , aimed at reducing the cost and environmental impact of battery replacement . The traditional practice involves replacing the entire traction battery when it experiences wear or malfunction , which is expensive and resource-intensive . Bosch ’ s repair set , however , replaces only the nickel-metal hydride modules of the battery , leaving other components like housing , blower , and electronics in place . This approach is not only cost-effective but also eco-friendly , as it conserves resources .
The high-voltage battery repair set comes with a five-year warranty and has passed vehicle registration authorities ’ tests , receiving a general operating license from the Federal Motor Transport Authority . Initially launched in Germany , the solution is available for Toyota and Lexus hybrid models like the Prius III , Yaris , and CT 200h , with plans to include the Toyota Auris in 2024 . The installation of the repair set requires level 3 high-voltage experts , and Bosch offers specific training for workshop associates to qualify as high-voltage experts , allowing workshops to enter the growing electromobility market .
At the 4th annual Hon Hai Tech Day ( HHTD23 ), Foxconn , the world ’ s largest technology manufacturer and service provider , unveiled an innovative electric cargo van called the MODEL N . This electric van features a range of cuttingedge design elements , including a one-button cargo compartment boarding system and enhanced safety features , highlighting Foxconn ’ s commitment to electric vehicle ( EV ) manufacturing .
The company also shared its plans for mass production of the MODEL B , an intelligent crossover , and provided updates on the commercial production of the MODEL C , its first family SUV . Furthermore , Foxconn announced its entry into the low-Earth-orbit satellite sector .
Foxconn is positioning itself as a major player in the EV market , emphasising its vertically integrated supply chain , particularly in semiconductors , as a key factor contributing to its resilience and success in EV production . The company also revealed collaborations with US chipmaker NVIDIA and German automotive supplier ZF Group , showing its commitment to advanced chassis solutions and autonomous driving technologies .
Honda introduced its fully-electric Autonomous Work Vehicle ( AWV ) prototype at Toronto Pearson Airport , aiming to advance its development by involving airfield operators and airport authorities in field testing .
The AWV addresses challenges like labour shortages , safety , security , and emissions reduction in airfield operations . Collaborating with the Greater Toronto Airports Authority and technology leaders like Cisco Canada , Genwave Technologies , Illuminex AI , and Eagle Aerospace , Honda is actively seeking partners for field testing to move closer to commercialising this innovative vehicle .
This AWV is a versatile , fully electric , off-road vehicle that can operate autonomously or manually through a tablet-based interface . It can handle tasks like hauling materials , attaching equipment , and towing maintenance tools , showcasing its potential in enhancing efficiency and safety for various airfield and airport ground operations , including perimeter security and debris removal .
Honda ’ s AWV combines advanced technologies , such as GPS , radar , LiDAR , and sensors , to ensure real-time monitoring and safe interactions with workers and obstacles .
28 ISSUE 43 OCTOBER 2023 / WWW . AFMA . ORG . AU