Integrated Starter-Generator Market

The integrated starter-generator for HEVs is a system designed to install in the hybrid and electric vehicle. In an integrated starter-generator system, the function of starter and generator is performed by a single unit. It is an energy efficient technology for hybrid electrical vehicles. Since most electric machines cannot offer high starting torque and higher speed range simultaneously, the starter motor and the generator have to be separately employed for engine cranking and battery charging, respectively. Advancements in electrical machines and power electronics, has led to the development of the integrated starter–generator, which performs both engine cranking and battery charging, which in turn is witnessing a high demand in modern automobiles and hybrid electric vehicles.

Demand for the integrated starter-generator for HEVs is expected to rise due to increasing concerns about environment protection and energy conservation. HEVs are witnessing an increase in production, which in turn is boosting the demand for integrated starter-generator systems. An integrated starter-generator requires lesser space for assembly and replaces the starter and alternator in conventional vehicles. The integrated starter generator has several advantages such as regenerative braking system which helps to charge the battery. Moreover, it reduces fuel consumption of the vehicle. A major restraint for the integrated starter-generator market for HEV is its high manufacturing cost.

The integrated starter-generator market for HEVs can be categorized on the basis of hybridization circuit, type of hybridization of the vehicle, vehicle type, and region.

Based on type of hybridization circuit, the integrated starter-generator market for HEVs can be segregated into series hybrid, parallel hybrid, and series parallel hybrid. In a series hybrid vehicle, the internal combustion engine drives an electric generator instead of directly driving the wheels. The generator both charges a battery and powers an electric motor that propels the vehicle. When large amounts of power are required, the motor draws current from both the battery and the generator. In a parallel hybrid vehicle, an internal combustion engine and an electric motor connected to a mechanical transmission, which drives the vehicle.

Power distribution between the engine and the motor is varied; hence, both operate according to the requirement of the vehicle. In a series parallel hybrid vehicle, the vehicle can be powered by a gasoline engine working alone, the electric motor by itself, or by both energy converters working together. Power distribution between the engine and motor is designed in such a way that the engine can run in its optimum operating range as much as possible.

Based on the type of hybridization of vehicle, the integrated starter-generator market for HEVs can be segmented into mild hybrid and micro hybrid vehicles. Mild hybrid vehicles cannot run fully on electric motors, however they provide extra power to the engines output by a motor. It is light weight, low cost, and use smaller battery than full hybrid vehicle. In a micro hybrid vehicle, the motor does not propel the vehicle. In micro hybrid the electric energy is used only to start and stop the engine.

The integrated starter generator for HEVs can be segmented based on the vehicle type as passenger vehicle and commercial vehicle. The passenger vehicle segment can be further sub-segmented into hatchbacks, sedans, and multi utility vehicles. The commercial vehicle segment can be further split into light commercial vehicles (LCVs) and heavy commercial vehicle (HCVs). Mostly, passenger cars employ hybrid technology.

In terms of region, the integrated starter-generator market for HEVs can be segmented into Europe, Asia Pacific, North America, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. Norway, in Europe, has the highest plug-in vehicle per capita in the world. China is an emerging market for hybrid vehicles, as the government of China is encouraging people to buy electric vehicles.

Key manufacturers operating in the integrated starter-generator market for HEVs are Delphi Automotive LLP, Denso Corporation, Robert Bosch GmbH, Hitachi Ltd., AISIN SEIKI, Co., Ltd., BorgWarner Inc., Johnson Controls, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, and Eaton.