at the north american international auto show in detroit, mich., bosch showcased a series of new technologies for automation, connectivity, and electrification, including its water injection engine and its thermal management designs for electric vehicles.

bosch introduced several engine technologies to improve thermal management. (youtube)

bosch has focused on the thermal management of electric vehicle batteries to preserve efficiency, extend the range by as much as 25 percent, especially in winter conditions, and maintain the life of the battery over numerous charges.

the system that bosch displayed at the auto show, according to a press release from the company, demonstrated a heat pump with bosch components that recovered waste heat from the powertrain and used the heated coolant to warm the cabin. bosch credits innovative coolant pumps and valves and a dehumidifier that regulates air circulation for the success of its thermal management system.

a video on the bosch website demonstrates how the waste heat is utilized in the winter with heated air electric motor and an inverter attached to the powertrain moving into the thermal management system. cold air is dissipated to the exterior and heat goes to the driver’s compartment and to the battery to maintain its temperature and extend its range in a cold environment.

the other innovation that bosch highlighted was its waterboost system that uses h₂o rather than co₂ to cool the engine. the water injection system sprays water on the engine to cool the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber, according to the bosch website, and in the process reduces engine knocking, allows earlier ignition, and increases engine performance by five percent.

“overall, the combustion process takes place at a better temperature and therefore in a more controlled fashion,” read the bosch site. “ignition happens sooner, which leads to a higher level of efficiency.”

the waterboost system also improves fuel efficiency during high-load situations. when the microfine spray is injected directly into the intake port, the water brings the temperature of the combustion air to a manageable level. according to the site, this process protects the powertrain components and prevents the engine from getting “out of breath” and misfiring.

watch the video below to learn more about the bosch waterboost system: