The start-stop coasting function, the fuel-saving technology recently launched by Bosch, has been presented the “Most innovative technology” award in the “Green” category at the “Dinner for Winner” event hosted by the trade journal AUTOMOBIL PRODUKTION.

In this enhanced start-stop technology, the internal-combustion engine is stopped not only when the vehicle is stationary, but also temporarily while it is in motion. This happens as soon as the driver releases pressure on the gas pedal. In conventional internal-combustion engines, this can mean a fuel saving of as much as 10 percent.

A ten-strong panel of judges, made up of renowned experts from across Europe, voted in favor of the Bosch coasting function. They praised its suitability for the mass-market. “Start-stop coasting won over the judges because the technology is cost-effective, can be combined with any internal-combustion engine, and significantly reduces consumption,” said Bettina Mayer, the editor-in-chief of AUTOMOBIL PRODUKTION. Much of the innovation is based on enhanced software using existing sensor information. Moreover, no additional components are needed in most cases.

“Minimum modifications with maximum effect”

Dr. Rolf Bulander, member of the board of management of Robert Bosch GmbH, accepted the award. He praised the engineering work done: “In developing coasting, our engineers have come up with an extremely efficient function. The award also shows how our comprehensive know-how allows us to achieve maximum effect with just minimum modifications.”

The way the enhanced start-stop mechanism works is as simple as it is clever: as soon as the driver steps off the gas pedal, the clutch opens electronically. This works via the automatic transmission, or in the case of manual transmission via the Bosch e-clutch. The internal-combustion engine is stopped, and the vehicle coasts without any engine-braking effect. During any one journey, 30 percent of the time is spent coasting on average. The new function brings about a fuel saving of roughly 10 percent. In more powerful engines with greater displacement, the fuel saving is even greater.

At this year’s “Dinner for Winner,” awards for innovative technologies were presented for the first time in three categories. The awards are presented by the trade journal AUTOMOBIL PRODUKTION, the German association of the automotive industry (VDA), and the European association of automotive suppliers (CLEPA). Bosch will continue to drive forward technological developments in the automobile. As well as continuously improving internal-combustion engines and supplying innovative powertrains such as the hydraulic hybrid, the supplier is working on alternative powertrains for electric vehicles, efficient auxiliary units, and brake-energy recuperation systems. Bosch engineers are focused equally on automated driving and on sophisticated multimedia solutions and user-friendly interfaces.