AISIN’s Electrification and Intelligence: A Test Drive into the Future
Back in August 2024, AISIN hosted a Technology and Test Drive Experience Event focused on Electrification and Intelligence at the AISIN Toyokoro Proving Ground in Hokkaido, Japan. As the automotive industry undergoes a massive transformation, AISIN is stepping up its game in electrification and smart technologies.
The company, known as a key supplier to automakers, is heavily involved in the development of parts for electric vehicles. Their aim? To increase vehicle efficiency by looking at the entire vehicle as an integrated system. This article dives into the second part of the experience, following automotive writer Motoki Watase as he explores the latest innovations unveiled at the event.
Electric Disc Brakes: A Smoother Stop
Modern vehicles are constantly improving how they react to driver input. Older cars used mechanical linkages, like cables and rods, to connect the pedals to the brakes and other systems. This method caused a bit of delay.
Hydraulic systems made things easier and more reliable, but they still have some lag. By-wire technology sends commands through electronic signals, getting rid of those delays. Already used in turn signals, and now in throttles, transmissions, and steering, it’s also making its way into braking systems.
ADVICS, an AISIN Group company, is introducing this by-wire system with electric disc brakes. In their “Future Brake” system, the rear wheels get the electric treatment first. (See diagram below)
The master cylinder is at the front of the car. While the distance from the master cylinder to the front brakes is short, the hydraulic lines to the rear wheels are longer, a common design issue in cars. Going electric in the rear improves how the components are packaged and reduces weight.
Electric brakes also broaden the scope of the regenerative braking system, which helps with efficiency. And, they eliminate the need for hydraulic fluid, which helps the environment.
During the test drive, the brakes felt natural, very similar to traditional hydraulic brakes, but with noticeably quicker response times. The braking distance was reduced by an estimated 7%, based on ADVICS’s published data.
Aerodynamic Devices: Cutting Through the Air
AISIN is focused on using aerodynamic devices to improve efficiency. These devices were also featured at the test drive event. The goal is to reduce drag while driving, potentially boosting efficiency by a remarkable four percent when all devices are active.
The front grille closes at high speeds. Movable spats in front of the tires, a rear spoiler, and a rear diffuser work only when needed to smooth the airflow. Other parts, like door handles, retract into the body when driving to reduce drag.
With all the aerodynamic features engaged, changing lanes was exceptionally smooth. Cornering at high speeds was also significantly more stable, encouraging more spirited driving.
These devices are displayed on a monitor, with active components highlighted in red. (Labels are shown in blue).
Intelligent Systems: Smarter Driving
In the realm of intelligence, AISIN is going beyond just receiving information. They are making full usage of data to improve safety, fuel economy, and electrical efficiency.
Car navigation systems are common way of alerting drivers to accident-prone zones. AISIN is now collecting and integrating vast amounts of data from all its systems including brakes, steering, drive units, and navigation systems to provide an integrated approach to vehicle control.
For example, when approaching a sharp corner on an unfamiliar road, the car can automatically adjust its speed, slowing itself down to make the turn safely. This technology can also manage wheel weight on slopes.
During the test, the car smoothly slowed down through sharp curves, similar to engine braking or deceleration during regeneration. This will benefit new drivers, giving them skills similar to experienced drivers. Smoother acceleration and braking also improves electricity efficiency.
Stress-Free Entry: Doors That Open Themselves
Vehicle intelligence is also transforming the passenger experience. Features like smart entry, which unlocks the car as you approach, are already standard. Moreover, many vehicles have kick sensors to open the trunk.
AISIN is pushing these innovations further with its Stress-Free Entry System. This system automatically opens and closes the doors at the right time, without any action from the user.
This system uses advanced sensors to correctly read a person’s intentions and ensures safety as the doors open. Door technology is evolving rapidly, and AISIN is testing a unique front and rear linked door system.
The test vehicle has doors that open like sliding doors, but they’re supported by arms, and there are no rails on the car’s sides. This lets designers be more creative with vehicle aesthetics.
This design offers safe and easy entry, even in tight spaces. The test vehicle lacks a B-pillar, making it easier to get in and out of the car.
AISIN is developing multiple electrification and intelligent technologies simultaneously. The test drive experience showed that these innovations are nearly ready for the market.
As the move toward electric vehicles continues globally, AISIN is positioned to play a key role as the parts manufacturer closest to automakers contributing toward a carbon-neutral future.
