Electronics

Integrated camera and digital map data helps drivers see more Alpine has developed a multiple camera system to improve visibility around a vehicle, which is additionally linked to a navigation database to add further functionality. Although the first prototypes have been developed using passenger cars, the company believes the technology has far greater potential applied to commercial vehicles and buses. Read full story

Conductive plastic for a better (lighter) battery “While you can’t change the basics of how batteries work, you can change the materials that are used to create them,” asserted Bill Robinson, the CEO of Integral Technologies Inc. And that is precisely what the Bellingham, WA-based company did; it has developed a moldable conductive plastic called ElectriPlast, a polymer blend that can be used to conduct electricity. Read full story

Thermal management challenges in EVs Due to the lack of waste heat, electric vehicles need an auxiliary heat source; however, this should not impact vehicle range. During the Frankfurt Motor Show, Eberspächer presented options for diverse thermal management solutions. So far all technologies have strengths and weaknesses. Read full story

Electronics downsized for small engines Legislators around the globe are taking aim at the small engines used in scooters, lawn equipment, and other small products. Freescale Semiconductor is responding with an analog part that reduces the size of control units so they can be added to small engines more easily. Read full story