Booster cables?

Here’s some food for thought.

The electrical systems of modern automobiles is about to undergo a huge and monumental change! That change will in turn have a profound effect on the cars we build in the coming years.

Beginning in the year 2005 (some say sooner, some later) the operating voltage of automotive electrical charging systems is to be updated to 42 volts!

The actual working voltage will be tripled to 36 volts, while the output from the charging system will go up to 42 volts.

This has come about partly because of the increased loads from on board computers, sensors, and related hardware. In addition, the introduction of modern accessories like G.P.S. navigational systems, e-mail and internet capable radios and cell phones have all helped to increase the demand on the electrical charging system. If you spend a few minutes studying the situation, it becomes clear that a 12 volt system can no longer keep up with the increasing demand laid upon it.

Having learned from the past, modern engineers knew the practical design limits of today's automotive electrical system was fast approaching. They also knew that, at the current rate of electrical accessories being added to new automobiles, a jump to 24 volts would only be a temporary fix good for ten years at best. The question became, how much could the voltage be increased and still not become a safety concern. Extensive research (read legal liability) has determined that 50 volts is the maximum practical safety limit for increased system voltage. In theory, when you are exposed to a 42 volt shock, it might curl your toes, but you should not drop or let go of the connection, and not suffer permanent physical damage.

So, what are the benefits of the 42-volt system?
By increasing the system to 42 (36) volts, the physical size of the wiring harness can be reduced to about one third of its present size.

Connectors will get smaller and look similar to those found inside your computer. This will mean reduced cost, easier to build harnesses and smaller packaging.

Higher voltage should also herald the end of mechanical relays and fusible links. The 42 volt harness would feature solid state switching with self diagnostic capabilities. Switches (fusing) would be located on a circuit board, much like a computer motherboard.

Some of the largest efficiency gains will come from motors and solenoids. Electric window motors could be one third their present size, representing size and weight savings, and solenoids, again smaller, would be more efficient.

Drive by wire technology will likely become a widespread reality. Grasp that concept and steering linkages, throttle systems and even brake-by-wire become feasible.

What else are they up to?
No more belt driven accessories, all now powered by efficient electrical motors. No more engine valve train! Camshafts! All would be gone - replaced with solenoid actuated valves with a variable timing feature, computer controlled for a wide range of driving conditions.

Electrical charging systems would also be capable of full rated output at idle and low RPM's. An alternator rated at 100 amp could provide that output at all engine speeds. Think of this as being the same way as electricity works in your house. This could open big opportunities for hot Rodders. Imagine lighting possibilities. Neon lighting and LED becoming the norm, rather than conventional bulbs. Then there is air-bag suspension! Engine bays with little wiring in evidence let alone 'hang on' engine accessories, electric water pumps, and self diagnostic valve train systems that do not sapping precious horse power!
Sounds like a good idea to me!

(taken from ASRF News, sent in by Terry Crosbie, original piece by Randy Rundle of Geelong Rodders Newsletter, Australia.)

The N.A.S.C. says;
As it happens, a lot of the above is very nearly in operation on HGV units, certainly plant equipment manufacturers have been looking into this for some time! Remember it has only been since the Sixties that we have fully embraced 12 volts, progressing on from 6 volts!

Also, there has to come a time when the very most has been squeezed out of a two litre four banger without a radical change in engine design. So, cheap and relatively simple horsepower gains can be gained by doing away with power reducing belt drive. If there is anyone in doubt, try driving a new 1400cc (or smaller) car with air-con and switch it on half way up an incline!

I feel far simpler gains could be had by selling Nitrous the same way LPG is sold at present, i.e. in 60 litre pressurised tanks, but we can all dream!
Contributed by Neil Meredith.