E-vehicle = e-compressor - that's for sure because there is no V-ribbed strap or belt drive in electric vehicles. In internal combustion vehicles, the compressor is part of the air conditioning system. In electrically powered vehicles, the air-conditioning compressor fulfills another very important function. There, it cools the crucial components in the powertrain: battery, traction motors and power electronics. The correct temperature control of these components is crucial for their service life as well as the charging speed and range of the vehicle. In this way, the air-conditioning compressor is changing its role: from a comfort component for cooling the vehicle interior to an indispensable component of the powertrain.
Since 2019, MAHLE has been producing electric air-conditioning compressors on a large scale, thus expanding its position as a total system provider in thermal management for electric vehicles as well.
This early commitment is paying off, as MAHLE has secured numerous series orders in the passenger car and commercial vehicle sectors.
The total order volume amounts to around EUR 1.4 billion.
MAHLE is a pioneer in high-voltage technology with its electric air-conditioning compressor, i.e. with voltage levels above 400 volts and large compressor strokes. These features enable, for example, the ultra-fast charging so important for modern e-vehicles.
MAHLE currently offers its high-voltage compressor in voltage ratings up to 900 volts and displacements up to 57 cm3. Its compact design means it can be used in all vehicle classes, from passenger cars to heavy commercial vehicles. The extremely small installation space requirement is made possible by a patented refrigerant cooling of compressor motor and electronics.
MAHLE compressors, however, are not only powerful in terms of performance-at 18 kW, MAHLE has the most powerful electric air-conditioning compressor in the range-but also noise-optimized due to the lowest vibrations. And that is one of the great challenges, especially in battery electric vehicles.
In addition to e-compressors, MAHLE also develops and produces electric drives, auxiliary units, electronics and software, and the entire thermal management system. E-mobility and thermal management are among the technology group's strategic fields. In the period from 2022 to 2026, more than 20 electrified vehicle platforms from leading passenger car and commercial vehicle manufacturers will be launched on the market that rely on technologies and products from MAHLE. The supplier is thus fully on track for transformation. MAHLE already generates over 60 percent of its sales independently of the passenger car combustion engine. By 2030, this share is to increase to 75 percent.