Bosch unveils cutting-edge sustainable energy solutions at CES 2024

Speaking at the event, Tanja Rückert, member of the Board of Management of Robert Bosch GmbH said, "To help us meet our future global energy needs in a more resource-efficient way, we at Bosch are rethinking energy use and focusing on a two-pronged approach that covers electrification and hydrogen."

"For a low-emissions future, we are optimising the use of traditional energy sources by driving forward the electrification of mobility, commercial buildings, and homes. We are also tapping into new, sustainable energy sources – with hydrogen playing a central role," added Rückert.

Bosch's innovations in electrification are particularly evident in the mobility sector. The company has made significant strides along the electromobility value chain, from e-axles and electric motors to battery technology and charging solutions.

A notable introduction at CES 2024 was Bosch's automated valet charging, a CES 2024 Innovation Award honouree. This technology enables electric vehicles, in a parking garage equipped with automated valet parking, to autonomously move to a charging spot. The car then drives itself to a free space after charging, with the entire process controlled via a smartphone.

“The unique combination of automated valet charging and automated valet parking makes Bosch a pioneer in the market. Every step towards greater convenience in electromobility increases not only its attractiveness but also its acceptance,” Rückert continued.

Bosch is also focusing on silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors, which are crucial for electrified mobility. These special semiconductors, with energy losses up to 50 per cent lower than traditional silicon chips, enhance driving range and charging efficiency.

Bosch's substantial investment in semiconductor manufacturing, including over 1.5 billion dollars in a new facility in Roseville, California, aims to ramp up SiC chip production by 2026.

In the home energy solutions sector, Bosch introduced the IDS Ultra Heat Pump at CES, designed for the challenging North American climates. This heat pump maintains full heating capacity in the extreme cold, offering a viable alternative to fossil fuel-based systems. Additionally, Bosch presented its efficient hybrid water heater, combining electric storage and heat-pump technology.

Mike Mansuetti, president of Bosch in North America commented, “With solutions like this, we are paving the way to an electrified home – and helping save costs and energy.”

Bosch's commitment to energy efficiency extends to its home appliances. The company's new dishwashers feature the MySchedule function, allowing users to schedule operations based on electricity costs or the availability of green energy. Moreover, Bosch has expanded its AMPShare power tool battery platform, promoting flexibility and sustainability for professional tool use.

Hydrogen technology is another key focus for Bosch, with investments spanning the hydrogen value chain. The company has commenced volume production of mobile fuel cells in Stuttgart, and is developing components for hydrogen engines.

“The H2 hubs are an important building block for establishing a hydrogen infrastructure. We at Bosch support these measures and are exploring participation in several of these hubs. Our goal is to help drive forward the clean-energy economy in North America. This is an area where we can contribute our expertise to the production and provisioning of hydrogen,” Mansuetti said.

In addition, Bosch’s partnership with Amazon Web Services has yielded advancements in software and digitalisation. Noteworthy products include a connected espresso machine, controllable via in-car voice assistance, and a point-of-interest assistant that uses interior cameras to provide real-time information based on the driver's eye movements.

Bosch's presence at CES 2024 clearly underscores its commitment to advancing sustainable energy technologies, focusing on both environmental responsibility and user convenience.

Bosch Vietnam plant launches rooftop solar system In mid-December, Bosch Vietnam, in collaboration with Tona Syntegra Solar Company, celebrated the inauguration of a 1,540kWp Solar Power System at the Bosch Plant (HcP). This event represents a major step for HcP in its transition to green energy for production, aligning with the Bosch Group's commitment to sustainability.