Bosch at Logimat Announced a 800-Volt Electric Drive

At LogiMAT, Bosch Engineering is presenting a high-performance electric drive for battery voltages of up to 800 volts, tailored to the specific requirements of heavy-duty intralogistics machines. As a result, even heavy-duty forklifts, truck tractor units, or seaport transporters in terminals and distribution centers can now be equipped with electric drives. The compact dimensions enable straightforward integration into tight installation spaces, meaning that existing device platforms can also benefit from electric propulsion.

Bosch has an Ace up its Sleeve for Heavy-Duty Applications at Logimat: the 800-volt Drive System

“Our powerful new electrification solution combines high power density, compact dimensions, and optimum efficiency. Its impressive flexibility makes it the perfect choice for the electrification of all types of intralogistics machines in heavy-duty operation,” explains Philip Kurek, who is responsible for off-highway and maritime solutions at Bosch Engineering.

The 800-volt drive system consists of the Bosch electric motor SMG230 and a highly efficient inverter equipped with silicon carbide power modules. The motor is designed for system voltages of 400 to 850 volts. In an ideal voltage and temperature range, it offers a continuous power output of 188 kW and around 250 Nm of torque. Up to 550 newton meters of peak torque can be delivered on a short-term basis. Thanks to the 800-volt technology, the power density has also been increased significantly. The new motor delivers up to 80 kW more power than a comparable 400-volt machine with identical weight or, with the same level of performance, boasts more compact dimensions and a much lower weight.

Semiconductors, Inverters, Diagnostic

Engineered to meet the specific requirements of the 800-volt system, the silicon carbide semiconductors in the power modules enable faster switching operations and steeper switching slopes, meaning that significantly less energy is lost in the form of heat. The inverters of the drive system with silicon carbide semiconductors thus offer impressive efficiency of more than 99 percent. The safety and diagnostic concept is based on established standards from the automotive domain and has been adapted to the specific requirements of intralogistics. Bosch Engineering supports its customers in integrating the drive system into their logistics machines as well as with the actual application of the system.

The electrification solution from Bosch Engineering offers flexibility in combination with tailored transmission solutions from Bosch Rexroth, such as the new eGFV9120 coaxial gearbox. In addition, the Collision avoidance system CAS, based on Bosch Rexroth’s open BODAS ecosystem, can intervene directly in the 800-volt drive system besides other types of drive systems. Using a combination of radar, ultrasonic sensors, and smart cameras from Bosch Engineering, the system enables effective collision protection through precise object and person detection.