Asia's New Role in Automotive Industry: Regionalization and Technology Innovations

Authors

Markus Heyn, Member of the Board of Management Robert Bosch GmbH, Chairman Bosch Mobility, Robert Bosch GmbH, Stuttgart

Year

2025

Print Info

Production/Publication ÖVK

Summary

The presentation highlights the new role of Asia in the automotive industry, particularly the dynamic developments in China and India. China has become the leader in electric mobility and hybrid vehicles. These successes are not limited to the passenger car market but also extend to the heavy commercial vehicle sector. When deciding on a powertrain technology for commercial vehicles, both the initial purchase price and the ongoing costs of refueling or charging are significant considerations. 

Bosch offers systems for all types of powertrain solutions. The introduction of the Bosch Rigid eAxle, which impresses with lower weight and higher efficiency compared to a central drive, is an example of local technological innovation. Due to China's consistent hydrogen strategy, driven by numerous hydrogen projects and the expansion of so-called hydrogen highways, the market for fuel cell electric vehicles in the heavy commercial vehicle sector is growing. 

An innovative solution is Bosch's Fuel Cell Power Module (FCPM). The new generation of Bosch FCPM promises significant technical advancements through the combination of European and Chinese development strengths, which will not only increase efficiency but also reduce costs. 

In India, initial efforts towards hydrogen powertrain in heavy commercial vehicles are started. However, a relevant market share of hydrogen engines in the transport sector is expected only in the 2030s. The presentation will highlight India's inclination towards hydrogen engines over fuel cell electric vehicles. This tendency is mainly due to specific local conditions and the similarity of the hydrogen engine to traditional combustion technology. 

In conclusion, it can be stated that different technologies for powertrain systems will gain a foothold in the vehicle market based on regional and application-specific factors. This diversification will be driven by local and political conditions as well as market needs and technological innovations.

ISBN

978-3-9504969-4-9

DOI

https://doi.org/10.62626/65kx-qdo7 Copy link

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