International automotive supplier FORVIA HELLA has partnered with software-defined power conversion company Tau Motors to develop a next-generation “virtually isolated Onboard Charger” (viOBC) for electric vehicles.
The viOBC design eliminates the need for a traditional transformer, allowing for reduced size and weight while achieving energy efficiency above 98 percent. According to FORVIA HELLA, the new charger reduces installation space by up to half and component weight by approximately a third, and is compatible with advanced features such as vehicle-to-grid integration.
“The collaboration takes onboard charging to the next level and creates a product that sets new standards in power density,” said Jörg Weisgerber, Managing Director Electronics at FORVIA HELLA. Tau Motors’ founder and CEO Wesley Pennington added, “This advanced technology partnership brings together Tau’s software-defined power conversion platform and FORVIA HELLA’s global scale in product, quality, and safety.”
The prototype has successfully completed concept testing, with series production expected within two to three years. The partnership also includes an investment in Tau Motors through HELLA Ventures, the venture capital arm of FORVIA HELLA.
The viOBC represents a departure from conventional onboard chargers by using software and hardware innovations to ensure full electrical and functional safety without a bulky transformer. The transformerless approach increases power density to up to 7 kW per liter and supports potential grid-supporting virtual powerplant capabilities, according to the companies.