Bosch
Media Service
Bosch Media Service contains press releases, press photos, videos and other materials which aim to support reporting about the Bosch Group.
Headlines
Leading through innovation Bosch CEO Denner urges vigilance of new trends Europe's leading position not set in stone
- China sees significant increase in patent applications
- Innovation and creativity are prerequisite for prosperity in Germany and Europe
- Linking the real and virtual worlds enables new business models and products
- May 17, 2013
- Press releases
- Business/economy
ITU recognizes commitment to road safety Bosch CEO Denner receives award from the International Telecommunication Union
- UN specialized agency honors Bosch innovations for improving road safety
- In Europe, the number of road deaths has halved over the last 15 years
- Need for harmonized allocation of radio frequencies around the globe
Stuttgart/Geneva – In Geneva, Dr. Volkmar Denner, the chairman of the Bosch board of management, has been presented with the 2013 World Telecommunication and Information Society Award by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). In giving the award, the specialized agency of the United Nations is paying tribute to Bosch’s efforts to improve road safety. “I accept this prestigious award on behalf of our more than 5,000 engineers whose innovations have made driving safer and more comfortable,” Denner said. According to Dr. Hamadoun I. Touré, the secretary general of the Geneva-based ITU, Bosch has made exemplary use of modern information and communications technologies to improve road safety. In addition to Denner, Ueli Maurer, the president of the Swiss confederation, and Jean Todt, the president of the international automobile federation (FIA), also received awards.
Since the mid-19th century, the ITU has been responsible for global issues relating to telecommunications, including the allocation and registration of radio frequencies. The organization supports the UN’s “decade of action for road safety” campaign, which aims to significantly improve road safety around the world by 2020. “One way we are working toward this goal is with the development of assistance systems which identify potential dangers and warn drivers about them in advance,” Denner said. Radar sensors are a key component of these systems. However, they depend on common, secure frequencies around the world. “Warnings or even emergency braking in critical situations are only possible when there are no disruptions to these systems. To ensure this, it is crucial that the frequency bands between 76 and 81 gigahertz be allocated to vehicle radar applications worldwide. In addition, the technical requirements must be harmonized and regulated globally,” Denner said. “This matter will therefore be a key topic at the 2015 World Radiocommunication Conference, and is one of the areas in which Bosch and the ITU are collaborating.”
In his acceptance speech, the Bosch CEO also called attention to the tremendous progress that has already been made in improving road safety. Thanks to advancements in automotive technology, the number of road deaths in Europe has fallen by half over the past 15 years. These technological innovations include the ESP® electronic stability program developed by Bosch. This system can prevent up to 80 percent of all skids, which account for nearly half of all fatal accidents. Since 1995, Bosch has delivered almost 100 million ESP® systems. The list of countries in which these systems are mandatory already includes Europe and the U.S., and is still growing.
More
Since the mid-19th century, the ITU has been responsible for global issues relating to telecommunications, including the allocation and registration of radio frequencies. The organization supports the UN’s “decade of action for road safety” campaign, which aims to significantly improve road safety around the world by 2020. “One way we are working toward this goal is with the development of assistance systems which identify potential dangers and warn drivers about them in advance,” Denner said. Radar sensors are a key component of these systems. However, they depend on common, secure frequencies around the world. “Warnings or even emergency braking in critical situations are only possible when there are no disruptions to these systems. To ensure this, it is crucial that the frequency bands between 76 and 81 gigahertz be allocated to vehicle radar applications worldwide. In addition, the technical requirements must be harmonized and regulated globally,” Denner said. “This matter will therefore be a key topic at the 2015 World Radiocommunication Conference, and is one of the areas in which Bosch and the ITU are collaborating.”
In his acceptance speech, the Bosch CEO also called attention to the tremendous progress that has already been made in improving road safety. Thanks to advancements in automotive technology, the number of road deaths in Europe has fallen by half over the past 15 years. These technological innovations include the ESP® electronic stability program developed by Bosch. This system can prevent up to 80 percent of all skids, which account for nearly half of all fatal accidents. Since 1995, Bosch has delivered almost 100 million ESP® systems. The list of countries in which these systems are mandatory already includes Europe and the U.S., and is still growing.
- May 17, 2013
- Press releases
- Automotive technology
- Images: 1
Bosch makes driving safer and more comfortable Assistance systems reach the compact class Featured in the new Golf
- Emergency brake assist provides safety, and adaptive cruise control makes driving more comfortable
- Sales of radar and video sensors are skyrocketing
- Bosch supplies assistance technology for the new Volkswagen Golf
As the driver’s gaze drifts to the left, the car keeps rolling forward. In the very same moment, the vehicle ahead comes to a sudden stop. While the driver does not notice the impending danger, the Bosch emergency brake assist does, and brings the car to a stop in the nick of time.
The predictive emergency braking function is just one of many assistance technologies that Bosch, being one of the leading automotive suppliers worldwide, offers. The electronics help preserve a safe distance between vehicles. In critical situations, they can warn drivers and brake automatically. At night, the vehicle electronics provide optimum automotive lighting outside city limits – and they do so fully automatically. All this makes driving a safer and more pleasant experience.
For many years, automatic assistance systems were to the preserve of premium-segment vehicle models. However, the technology has now reached vehicles in the compact class. For instance, Bosch has supplied the radar and video sensors for the new Volkswagen Golf.
“With its assistance systems in the new Golf, Bosch has brought safety and comfort to the masses,” says Gerhard Steiger, president of the Bosch Chassis Systems Control division. The sales figures for modern environment sensors clearly illustrate this. Such sensors form the basis of predictive assistance systems, as they monitor the vehicle’s surroundings. From 2011 to 2012 alone, the number of sensors sold around the world more than doubled. And drivers are benefiting from this trend: as a result of mass production, prices have decreased, and more buyers of new vehicles can afford the electronic helpers. In turn, as the sensors become more widespread, the accident risk for all road users will diminish.
Assistance systems become noticeably active in critical situations. For instance, the Bosch emergency brake assist alarms the driver as soon as danger becomes apparent. If the driver fails to react to its acoustic warning, it briefly hits the brakes, and then partially brakes automatically. If an accident can no longer be avoided, full automatic braking can, at the very least, reduce impact speed. The sensor data can be used to precisely adapt the braking force to the danger at hand. At speeds of less than 30 kilometers per hour, however, there is no multi-stage braking strategy. This saves time, and makes it possible to effectively avoid accidents.
Another example is the Bosch adaptive cruise control. The driver sets the vehicle’s speed as always. The car not only maintains the speed, it brakes and accelerates automatically – and can bring the car to a complete halt. In vehicles equipped with automatic transmission, it can even move off on its own following a short stop. With adaptive cruise control, the only thing the driver has to do is steer. All this is made possible by a radar sensor that keeps precise track of the distance to the vehicles ahead.
The multi-purpose camera is another decisive provider of information. It films what is happening up to a range of 120 meters in front of the car. Powerful software analyzes the flow of images at lightning speed. For instance, it recognizes road markings that are important for lane departure warning assistance. If a vehicle approaches the curb line, steering can be gently corrected to automatically guide the vehicle back to the middle of the lane. Road sign recognition functions can also draw on the video sensor data. Comparing these with information from the vehicle’s navigation system means drivers can be warned of speed limits and areas in which overtaking is not allowed. The high beam assistant and dynamic light control functions also use data from the Bosch video camera, which provides the information required to ensure the best possible view without dazzling oncoming drivers.
Assistance and much more
In addition to safety and comfort features, the new Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a number of other Bosch technologies, including the car’s diesel injection system, its engine control unit, injection valves for gasoline direct injection, the start-stop system, the alternator, the wiper system, and the engine’s cooling fan, as well as a broad range of sensors.
Additional YouTube links:
Bosch predictive emergency braking system:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHR8AeZrlVc
Bosch Adaptive Cruise Control:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=own_VaRZ9M8
More
The predictive emergency braking function is just one of many assistance technologies that Bosch, being one of the leading automotive suppliers worldwide, offers. The electronics help preserve a safe distance between vehicles. In critical situations, they can warn drivers and brake automatically. At night, the vehicle electronics provide optimum automotive lighting outside city limits – and they do so fully automatically. All this makes driving a safer and more pleasant experience.
For many years, automatic assistance systems were to the preserve of premium-segment vehicle models. However, the technology has now reached vehicles in the compact class. For instance, Bosch has supplied the radar and video sensors for the new Volkswagen Golf.
“With its assistance systems in the new Golf, Bosch has brought safety and comfort to the masses,” says Gerhard Steiger, president of the Bosch Chassis Systems Control division. The sales figures for modern environment sensors clearly illustrate this. Such sensors form the basis of predictive assistance systems, as they monitor the vehicle’s surroundings. From 2011 to 2012 alone, the number of sensors sold around the world more than doubled. And drivers are benefiting from this trend: as a result of mass production, prices have decreased, and more buyers of new vehicles can afford the electronic helpers. In turn, as the sensors become more widespread, the accident risk for all road users will diminish.
Assistance systems become noticeably active in critical situations. For instance, the Bosch emergency brake assist alarms the driver as soon as danger becomes apparent. If the driver fails to react to its acoustic warning, it briefly hits the brakes, and then partially brakes automatically. If an accident can no longer be avoided, full automatic braking can, at the very least, reduce impact speed. The sensor data can be used to precisely adapt the braking force to the danger at hand. At speeds of less than 30 kilometers per hour, however, there is no multi-stage braking strategy. This saves time, and makes it possible to effectively avoid accidents.
Another example is the Bosch adaptive cruise control. The driver sets the vehicle’s speed as always. The car not only maintains the speed, it brakes and accelerates automatically – and can bring the car to a complete halt. In vehicles equipped with automatic transmission, it can even move off on its own following a short stop. With adaptive cruise control, the only thing the driver has to do is steer. All this is made possible by a radar sensor that keeps precise track of the distance to the vehicles ahead.
The multi-purpose camera is another decisive provider of information. It films what is happening up to a range of 120 meters in front of the car. Powerful software analyzes the flow of images at lightning speed. For instance, it recognizes road markings that are important for lane departure warning assistance. If a vehicle approaches the curb line, steering can be gently corrected to automatically guide the vehicle back to the middle of the lane. Road sign recognition functions can also draw on the video sensor data. Comparing these with information from the vehicle’s navigation system means drivers can be warned of speed limits and areas in which overtaking is not allowed. The high beam assistant and dynamic light control functions also use data from the Bosch video camera, which provides the information required to ensure the best possible view without dazzling oncoming drivers.
Assistance and much more
In addition to safety and comfort features, the new Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a number of other Bosch technologies, including the car’s diesel injection system, its engine control unit, injection valves for gasoline direct injection, the start-stop system, the alternator, the wiper system, and the engine’s cooling fan, as well as a broad range of sensors.
Additional YouTube links:
Bosch predictive emergency braking system:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHR8AeZrlVc
Bosch Adaptive Cruise Control:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=own_VaRZ9M8
- May 15, 2013
- Press releases
- Automotive technology
- Images: 1
Automated driving Bosch carries out tests on German roads
- Bosch test vehicle brings highly automated driving to the Autobahn
- TÜV Süd confirms that comprehensive safety concept is sound
- Tests in real traffic conditions accelerate the development of functions
Bosch is testing automated driving on German roads. The stated aim is to use everyday driving situations to put these self-steering and self-driving cars to the test and to improve them. In an independent report that praises the safety concept Bosch worked up for the test drives, the German certification organization TÜV Süd is absolutely certain that “nothing now stands in the way of testing these experimental vehicles on public roads.” Wolf-Henning Scheider, the member of the Bosch board of management responsible for this area, underlines the significance of this independent assessment: “We are absolutely committed to the principle of dual control.”
The first stage of development is concerned with automated driving on the Autobahn. With no crossing traffic, no oncoming traffic, and no pedestrians, freeways present the fewest challenges to automated systems. The test car’s maneuvers are dictated by a lane keeping assistant, an adaptive cruise control system, and a lane changing assistant, with the necessary information about the car’s surroundings being collected by Bosch radar and video sensors. Findings from these tests are paving the way for driving functions that are ever more automated, such as a traffic jam pilot that fully automatically assumes control of the car at low speeds. On the way to achieving this goal, the tests are already providing valuable experience that is feeding in to improvements in emergency braking or evasion systems. “The results of these tests are helping to make driving even safer and more relaxed,” Scheider says.
Even though the technology is already in a position to deal with almost any traffic situation that might conceivably be encountered on a freeway, the drivers at the wheel of these test vehicles are nonetheless specially trained. Only associates who have internalized the safety concept and completed a special driving course are allowed to take part in the test drives. One thing they must be able to do is react quickly in potentially critical situations.
A good 5,000 engineers work at Bosch to develop ever more powerful safety and assistance systems which form the foundation for automated driving. The project team responsible is now working to safely integrate these future functions with a car’s sensors, control units, and actuators to form a unified system. They are working toward this aim in two places: in Palo Alto, California, engineers are driving the development of functions, while systems integration is being done in Abstatt, near Stuttgart in Germany.
Additional YouTube link:
Bosch automated driving:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0D0ZN2tPihQ
More
The first stage of development is concerned with automated driving on the Autobahn. With no crossing traffic, no oncoming traffic, and no pedestrians, freeways present the fewest challenges to automated systems. The test car’s maneuvers are dictated by a lane keeping assistant, an adaptive cruise control system, and a lane changing assistant, with the necessary information about the car’s surroundings being collected by Bosch radar and video sensors. Findings from these tests are paving the way for driving functions that are ever more automated, such as a traffic jam pilot that fully automatically assumes control of the car at low speeds. On the way to achieving this goal, the tests are already providing valuable experience that is feeding in to improvements in emergency braking or evasion systems. “The results of these tests are helping to make driving even safer and more relaxed,” Scheider says.
Even though the technology is already in a position to deal with almost any traffic situation that might conceivably be encountered on a freeway, the drivers at the wheel of these test vehicles are nonetheless specially trained. Only associates who have internalized the safety concept and completed a special driving course are allowed to take part in the test drives. One thing they must be able to do is react quickly in potentially critical situations.
A good 5,000 engineers work at Bosch to develop ever more powerful safety and assistance systems which form the foundation for automated driving. The project team responsible is now working to safely integrate these future functions with a car’s sensors, control units, and actuators to form a unified system. They are working toward this aim in two places: in Palo Alto, California, engineers are driving the development of functions, while systems integration is being done in Abstatt, near Stuttgart in Germany.
Additional YouTube link:
Bosch automated driving:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0D0ZN2tPihQ
- May 03, 2013
- Press releases
- Automotive technology
- Images: 2
2013 Automotive Innovation Award Awards for Bosch parking assistant and hybrid components
- Bosch wins in the categories “powertrain technology” and “electrics and electronics”
- Professor Stefan Bratzel: “Bosch offers high-quality innovations”
- Awards for significant innovations that are close to series production
Parking without lifting a finger – Bosch’s automatic parking assistant makes getting into even the tightest spaces child’s play for drivers. This is one of the innovations for which the company has won two awards. The Center of Automotive Management and PricewaterhouseCoopers have given the supplier of technology and services the “2013 Automotive Innovation Award” in the “powertrain technology” and “electrics and electronics” categories. In his commendation, Professor Stefan Bratzel from the Center of Automotive Management said: “Bosch is seen as a highly innovative supplier and its innovations are very high quality.” In addition to the parking assistant, innovations such as the diesel hybrid and the latest improvements to the start-stop system impressed the judges.
The awards were given following a comprehensive analysis of several suppliers. The selection committee examined hundreds of innovations by leading companies. But the sheer number of innovations was not the only thing that counted. What was more important was the degree of innovation and how close the products were to series production. The opinions of major automakers also played a role in the evaluation. The awards were accepted by Wolf-Henning Scheider, member of the board of management of Robert Bosch GmbH. Dedicating them to his hard-working associates, Scheider said: “These two awards are also confirmation of two fundamental Bosch values: innovative strength and quality.”
He added that the workforce of Robert Bosch GmbH will continue to be an innovative force in the automotive industry. As well as continuously improving internal-combustion engines, the supplier is also working on alternative powertrains for electric vehicles, efficient peripheral systems, and a hydraulic hybrid. In addition, Bosch engineers are focused intently on automated driving as well as on sophisticated multimedia solutions and user-friendly interfaces. Even now, for example, drivers can benefit from more than half a dozen assistance systems that are becoming standard features not only in the premium segment but also in the compact class.
More
The awards were given following a comprehensive analysis of several suppliers. The selection committee examined hundreds of innovations by leading companies. But the sheer number of innovations was not the only thing that counted. What was more important was the degree of innovation and how close the products were to series production. The opinions of major automakers also played a role in the evaluation. The awards were accepted by Wolf-Henning Scheider, member of the board of management of Robert Bosch GmbH. Dedicating them to his hard-working associates, Scheider said: “These two awards are also confirmation of two fundamental Bosch values: innovative strength and quality.”
He added that the workforce of Robert Bosch GmbH will continue to be an innovative force in the automotive industry. As well as continuously improving internal-combustion engines, the supplier is also working on alternative powertrains for electric vehicles, efficient peripheral systems, and a hydraulic hybrid. In addition, Bosch engineers are focused intently on automated driving as well as on sophisticated multimedia solutions and user-friendly interfaces. Even now, for example, drivers can benefit from more than half a dozen assistance systems that are becoming standard features not only in the premium segment but also in the compact class.
- May 03, 2013
- Press releases
- Automotive technology
- Images: 1
Double-digit growth over the past decade Bosch China continues steady business performance in 2012 Increasing local agility to sustain long-term growth
- Total revenue at CNY 41.7 billion (5.1 billion euros)
- Compound annual growth rate of 25 percent makes China a Bosch success story over the past decade
- Double-digit growth expected in 2013
Shanghai – Bosch, a leading global supplier of technology and services, generated consolidated sales revenue of CNY 41.7 billion (5.1 billion euros) in China in 2012. “After many years of strong growth, our business in China stagnated on a high level in 2012. Even so, China remains Bosch’s second largest overseas market. For 2013, we again expect to see considerable growth in China,” said Uwe Raschke, the member of the board of management of Robert Bosch GmbH responsible for Asia Pacific. He added: “The compound annual growth rate of 25 percent over the past decade makes China a Bosch success story. And we strive to achieve double-digit growth in the future.” A number of measures were introduced to improve local agility in 2012, and these will continue in 2013. They include greater local decision-making powers, a higher share of local value add and supplies, more products oriented to local markets, and a continuation of the company’s long-established policy of substantial local R&D activities.
2012 is a mixed year in terms of business development for Bosch in China. With the lasting strength of innovative technologies and localization solutions for the Chinese market, the Automotive Technology business sector managed to grow in line with the market. The Industrial Technology business sector, however, felt the effects of the downturn in mechanical engineering. And as the real estate market recovered, the Consumer Goods and Building Technology business sector witnessed moderate growth.
Bosch Group business developments 2012-2013
For 2013, Bosch expects global sales growth of 2 to 4 percent. The measures to improve result that were started in 2012 – such as limits on fixed costs, capital expenditure, and company acquisitions – are to be continued. The supplier of technology and services will also continue to rigorously pursue the main lines of its strategy – with systems for environmental protection, energy efficiency, and safety. Bosch believes that there is huge energy-efficiency potential, as well as sales potential, in modernizing buildings’ power supply, energy management, and insulation.
On January 1, 2013, Bosch brought together the areas of its business that deal with this to form a fourth business sector, Energy and Building Technology. This new business sector generated sales of 5 billion euros in 2012. The company also expects sales growth to come from innovative and beneficial products, web-based business models, and the further expansion of its international presence. At the company’s recent annual press conference in Germany, Dr. Volkmar Denner, the chairman of the Bosch board of management, said: “Bosch’s broad footprint has never been as valuable as in the age of connected life.”
Comprehensive localization efforts
“Bosch continued to step up its localization activities in China, paying increasing attention to prospects for long-term growth,” said Dr. Chen Yudong, president of Bosch (China) Investment Ltd. “We see talent and innovation as the two main drivers of our future development. And in view of the results, our efforts have paid off,” he added. Bosch continued to invest heavily in China in 2012, with investments reaching a total of CNY 3.6 billion (440 million euros). Bosch’s localization policy manifests itself in various ways.
There has been continuous investment in R&D and local engineering competence has improved. In 2012, Bosch filed 126 local patents in China, 75 percent more than in the previous year. By the beginning of 2013, headcount was over 34,000 – 11 percent more than in the year before. And at 16 percent, the increase in Chinese associates working in R&D was even higher. They now number 3,200.
By appointing Chinese executives the new local presidents of a number of divisions in mid 2012, Bosch strengthened its local decision-making power. To meet regional market demands, Bosch stepped up its “Go West” strategy, especially in Chengdu, where Bosch established a communication center that will act as a service hub for the entire country. In addition, a plant for the Chassis Systems Control division will open this year, and further plants for Packaging Technology and Power Tools will be completed in 2014. In Nanjing, the Automotive Aftermarket division just opened a new plant, which will be the Bosch Group’s biggest spark-plug production base as well as the R&D hub for Asia Pacific.
Tailoring solutions to customers’ requirements
As domestic consumption becomes increasingly important in the economy, China is undergoing a profound transition. “Consumers with increasingly differentiated demands are flexing their economic muscle, and their purchasing behavior is evolving dramatically,” said Dr. Chen Yudong, and continued: “With a focus on these customers, Bosch has broadened and intensified its access to end-users through products and technologies, channels and market presence.”
Local innovations that make products more affordable without compromising Bosch quality performed a prominent role in the expansion of the company’s portfolio. Products such as the inexpensive AB light airbag control unit and the mid-price T-edition power tools for Chinese tradespeople were developed using Bosch expertise from a number of areas. The Thermotechnology division is developing a low output wall-mounted boiler for the Chinese housing market. To further strengthen its bond with consumers, Bosch is attaching more importance to its B2C platforms, and has opened new gates for customer communications, such as the Bosch Car Service’s newly inaugurated Beijing workshop.
In the future, Bosch wants to progress from customer satisfaction to customer enthusiasm. User experience, with a focus on connectivity, will be the primary contributor to meeting this objective. As of January 1, the company has established a fourth business sector, Energy and Building Technology. This sector shows great potential, from both an economic and an environmental perspective. It will focus on two main areas: the control of heating and security systems, and energy-management services.
Enduring and comprehensive efforts to support industrial upgrading
Rapid industrialization has made China the world’s leading manufacturing base, but also places enormous pressure on the environment. “As China seeks to transform its economic growth pattern to one of lower environmental impact and greater innovative competence, industrial upgrading is essential,” said Dr. Chen Yudong. “Besides technical innovations, talent is the key to the success, especially the blue-collar workers who are the bedrock of our manufacturing operations,” he added.Thanks to its dual system for training blue-collar workers, Bosch has sustained its competitiveness for over a century in the manufacturing world. Since its Chinese equivalent, the "Apprentice Class Program," was introduced in 2007, the system has been made available in Suzhou, Beijing, Changsha, and Nanjing. More than 200 apprentices have completed the program and showcased the skills they acquired.
In addition to manufacturing quality, Bosch provides innovative solutions for energy efficiency. For mobility, Bosch proactively develops cleaner technologies. Locally made products include the Denoxtronic 6-5 exhaust-gas treatment system and the start-stop system. For manufacturers, Bosch has introduced its “Rexroth for Energy Efficiency” program, which allows industrial systems to be optimized and offers an energy saving potential of up to 44 percent.
By partnering with customers and suppliers, Bosch intends to boost the competence of related industries along the value chain. The more than 60 “best supplier” awards it has received are evidence of Bosch’s successful cooperative practices with customers. On the other hand, Bosch spares no effort in cultivating local suppliers that meet Bosch’s global standards. As an incentive, Bosch confers preferred-supplier status on suppliers that deliver outstanding products or services every year.
Actively taking on social responsibility
In each of the past two years, the independent international human resource institute Corporate Research Foundation has named Bosch a “Top Employer.” It is Bosch’s aim to offer its associates attractive working conditions and career development opportunities. As a corporate citizen, and in accordance with its wider presence in China, Bosch makes a valuable contribution to society. In 2012, Bosch China Charity Center kicked off its three-year plan, increasing its efforts in the less developed mid-western regions and focusing on areas such as poverty and vocational training. By integrating its responsibilities for both associates and society into its daily activities, Bosch is determined to drive forward a sustainable and mutually beneficial development in and with China.
Bosch at the International Automobile Exhibition in Shanghai, Hall E2
Under the theme of “Clean and Economical, Safe and Comfort”, Bosch will present a series of leading automotive technologies and system solutions on the 15th International Automobile Exhibition in Shanghai, April 21 - April 29, including innovative safety technologies and driver assistance systems committed to “accident-free” driving, powertrain electrification systems, diesel common rail systems, gasoline direct injection systems, start/stop systems, CNG system for natural gas and combined diesel-gas-drivetrains.
The press release will be available here on April 20:
http://www.bosch.com.cn/new/web/press/press_release_en.htm
Contact person for press inquiries:
Agnes Grill
Phone: +86 18501675033
In Germany:
Melita Delic
Phone: +49 711 811-48617
More
2012 is a mixed year in terms of business development for Bosch in China. With the lasting strength of innovative technologies and localization solutions for the Chinese market, the Automotive Technology business sector managed to grow in line with the market. The Industrial Technology business sector, however, felt the effects of the downturn in mechanical engineering. And as the real estate market recovered, the Consumer Goods and Building Technology business sector witnessed moderate growth.
Bosch Group business developments 2012-2013
For 2013, Bosch expects global sales growth of 2 to 4 percent. The measures to improve result that were started in 2012 – such as limits on fixed costs, capital expenditure, and company acquisitions – are to be continued. The supplier of technology and services will also continue to rigorously pursue the main lines of its strategy – with systems for environmental protection, energy efficiency, and safety. Bosch believes that there is huge energy-efficiency potential, as well as sales potential, in modernizing buildings’ power supply, energy management, and insulation.
On January 1, 2013, Bosch brought together the areas of its business that deal with this to form a fourth business sector, Energy and Building Technology. This new business sector generated sales of 5 billion euros in 2012. The company also expects sales growth to come from innovative and beneficial products, web-based business models, and the further expansion of its international presence. At the company’s recent annual press conference in Germany, Dr. Volkmar Denner, the chairman of the Bosch board of management, said: “Bosch’s broad footprint has never been as valuable as in the age of connected life.”
Comprehensive localization efforts
“Bosch continued to step up its localization activities in China, paying increasing attention to prospects for long-term growth,” said Dr. Chen Yudong, president of Bosch (China) Investment Ltd. “We see talent and innovation as the two main drivers of our future development. And in view of the results, our efforts have paid off,” he added. Bosch continued to invest heavily in China in 2012, with investments reaching a total of CNY 3.6 billion (440 million euros). Bosch’s localization policy manifests itself in various ways.
There has been continuous investment in R&D and local engineering competence has improved. In 2012, Bosch filed 126 local patents in China, 75 percent more than in the previous year. By the beginning of 2013, headcount was over 34,000 – 11 percent more than in the year before. And at 16 percent, the increase in Chinese associates working in R&D was even higher. They now number 3,200.
By appointing Chinese executives the new local presidents of a number of divisions in mid 2012, Bosch strengthened its local decision-making power. To meet regional market demands, Bosch stepped up its “Go West” strategy, especially in Chengdu, where Bosch established a communication center that will act as a service hub for the entire country. In addition, a plant for the Chassis Systems Control division will open this year, and further plants for Packaging Technology and Power Tools will be completed in 2014. In Nanjing, the Automotive Aftermarket division just opened a new plant, which will be the Bosch Group’s biggest spark-plug production base as well as the R&D hub for Asia Pacific.
Tailoring solutions to customers’ requirements
As domestic consumption becomes increasingly important in the economy, China is undergoing a profound transition. “Consumers with increasingly differentiated demands are flexing their economic muscle, and their purchasing behavior is evolving dramatically,” said Dr. Chen Yudong, and continued: “With a focus on these customers, Bosch has broadened and intensified its access to end-users through products and technologies, channels and market presence.”
Local innovations that make products more affordable without compromising Bosch quality performed a prominent role in the expansion of the company’s portfolio. Products such as the inexpensive AB light airbag control unit and the mid-price T-edition power tools for Chinese tradespeople were developed using Bosch expertise from a number of areas. The Thermotechnology division is developing a low output wall-mounted boiler for the Chinese housing market. To further strengthen its bond with consumers, Bosch is attaching more importance to its B2C platforms, and has opened new gates for customer communications, such as the Bosch Car Service’s newly inaugurated Beijing workshop.
In the future, Bosch wants to progress from customer satisfaction to customer enthusiasm. User experience, with a focus on connectivity, will be the primary contributor to meeting this objective. As of January 1, the company has established a fourth business sector, Energy and Building Technology. This sector shows great potential, from both an economic and an environmental perspective. It will focus on two main areas: the control of heating and security systems, and energy-management services.
Enduring and comprehensive efforts to support industrial upgrading
Rapid industrialization has made China the world’s leading manufacturing base, but also places enormous pressure on the environment. “As China seeks to transform its economic growth pattern to one of lower environmental impact and greater innovative competence, industrial upgrading is essential,” said Dr. Chen Yudong. “Besides technical innovations, talent is the key to the success, especially the blue-collar workers who are the bedrock of our manufacturing operations,” he added.Thanks to its dual system for training blue-collar workers, Bosch has sustained its competitiveness for over a century in the manufacturing world. Since its Chinese equivalent, the "Apprentice Class Program," was introduced in 2007, the system has been made available in Suzhou, Beijing, Changsha, and Nanjing. More than 200 apprentices have completed the program and showcased the skills they acquired.
In addition to manufacturing quality, Bosch provides innovative solutions for energy efficiency. For mobility, Bosch proactively develops cleaner technologies. Locally made products include the Denoxtronic 6-5 exhaust-gas treatment system and the start-stop system. For manufacturers, Bosch has introduced its “Rexroth for Energy Efficiency” program, which allows industrial systems to be optimized and offers an energy saving potential of up to 44 percent.
By partnering with customers and suppliers, Bosch intends to boost the competence of related industries along the value chain. The more than 60 “best supplier” awards it has received are evidence of Bosch’s successful cooperative practices with customers. On the other hand, Bosch spares no effort in cultivating local suppliers that meet Bosch’s global standards. As an incentive, Bosch confers preferred-supplier status on suppliers that deliver outstanding products or services every year.
Actively taking on social responsibility
In each of the past two years, the independent international human resource institute Corporate Research Foundation has named Bosch a “Top Employer.” It is Bosch’s aim to offer its associates attractive working conditions and career development opportunities. As a corporate citizen, and in accordance with its wider presence in China, Bosch makes a valuable contribution to society. In 2012, Bosch China Charity Center kicked off its three-year plan, increasing its efforts in the less developed mid-western regions and focusing on areas such as poverty and vocational training. By integrating its responsibilities for both associates and society into its daily activities, Bosch is determined to drive forward a sustainable and mutually beneficial development in and with China.
Bosch at the International Automobile Exhibition in Shanghai, Hall E2
Under the theme of “Clean and Economical, Safe and Comfort”, Bosch will present a series of leading automotive technologies and system solutions on the 15th International Automobile Exhibition in Shanghai, April 21 - April 29, including innovative safety technologies and driver assistance systems committed to “accident-free” driving, powertrain electrification systems, diesel common rail systems, gasoline direct injection systems, start/stop systems, CNG system for natural gas and combined diesel-gas-drivetrains.
The press release will be available here on April 20:
http://www.bosch.com.cn/new/web/press/press_release_en.htm
Contact person for press inquiries:
Agnes Grill
Phone: +86 18501675033
In Germany:
Melita Delic
Phone: +49 711 811-48617
| In China, the Bosch Group manufactures and markets automotive original equipment and aftermarket products, industrial drives and control technology, packaging technology, solar energy products, power tools, security and communication systems, thermotechnology, household appliances. Having established a regional presence in China since 1909, Bosch employs over 34,000 associates in 58 legal entities and facilities, with consolidated sales of CNY 41.7 billion in fiscal 2012. |
- April 19, 2013
- Press releases
- Business/economy
- Images: 2
Bosch adds to its family-friendly working culture First guidelines for balancing career and private life
- Modern policies on working hours simplify working life
- Achieve a better work-life balance
- Bosch offers over 100 different working time models
- March 11, 2013
- Press releases
- Business/economy
Less stress during traffic jams Bosch works on autonomous driving
- Assistance systems autonomously guide vehicles traffic jams
- Bosch offers all the required components and sensors from a single source
- First steps on the way to fully autonomous driving
High-performance assistance systems already help drivers reach their destinations safely and more comfortably. Such systems control speed and the distance between vehicles. They also warn drivers of traffic jams and help them maneuver into even the tightest of parking spaces. Bosch, the global supplier of automotive technology and services, is set to expand its range of driver assistance systems in the years to come. In the future, these systems will take on a growing role in guiding vehicles through traffic jams. More specifically, they will brake, accelerate, and steer completely autonomously. The traffic jam assistant will step in when the vehicle is moving at speeds between 0 and 50 kilometers per hour. This means that it will operate in most stop-and-go traffic situations. According to the German motor club ADAC, the total length of tailbacks in Germany alone amounted to 405,000 kilometers in 2011. “The traffic jam assistant helps drivers arrive more relaxed at their destination, even in dense traffic,” says Gerhard Steiger, president of the Bosch Chassis Systems Control division. The first generation of the traffic jam assistant is expected to enter series production in 2014. In the following years, the feature will be enhanced to cover ever-faster speeds and more complex driving situations. Eventually, the traffic jam assistant will serve as a highway pilot, making fully autonomous driving a reality.
Today, adaptive cruise control already tracks the vehicles ahead and adapts the distance and speed of the driver’s own vehicle accordingly. Acting in combination with the ESP® system and with the additional support of lane-detection cameras and electromechanical steering, this forms the technical basis for autonomous driving. High-performance software now calculates the appropriate driving instructions for a safer and less stressful driving. Automatic lane changing is the next functional step. It calls for two additional features. First, a rear-mounted radar sensor that also detects fast-approaching vehicles and, second, a dynamic navigation map. Such maps, which operate via a mobile network connection, can keep drivers informed of current roadwork sites and local speed restrictions. And although drivers remain responsible for driving, they can limit themselves to monitoring the actions of the driver assistance system.
The Bosch portfolio offers all the required sensors and components
As well as the ESP® and electrical steering, Bosch offers all the sensors required to detect the full range of traffic conditions relevant for drivers and their vehicles. Depending on the extent of onboard functions offered by a particular vehicle, front detection is carried out by a radar sensor combined with a mono camera, or by a stereo camera. With the LRR3, Bosch offers a high-performance long-range radar sensor. With an aperture angle of up to 30 degrees, this sensor can detect objects at a distance of 250 meters. The new mid-range radar sensor, scheduled to go into series production in 2013, offers a range of 160 meters and an aperture angle of 45 degrees. Its cost is significantly lower, since it is designed to meet the requirements of the mass market. In addition to the currently available multi-purpose video camera that is equipped with one sensor element, Bosch has developed a stereo video camera that detects objects in 3D with the help of two sensors. As a result, it is able to calculate exactly how far objects are from the vehicle, as well as in which direction they are moving. Both sensor configurations enable full predictive emergency braking. Two adapted mid-range radar sensors assume the task of observing traffic behind the vehicle. These sensors have an aperture angle of 150 degrees and can detect objects up to 100 meters away. Finally, the parking assistant’s ultrasound sensors provide support during close-range steering maneuvers.
Level of automation continues to grow
“Fully autonomous driving will come about one step at a time,” Steiger says. At first, driving on highways with an ever greater degree of automation and at ever higher speeds will be possible, until the highway pilot can take over the entire trip. Two major challenges remain. First, inner-city driving, since automated vehicle functions have to deal with dense traffic involving a large number of road users traveling in every direction. Second, developing a concept to ensure that the system’s functions operate reliably in all types of driving situation.
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Today, adaptive cruise control already tracks the vehicles ahead and adapts the distance and speed of the driver’s own vehicle accordingly. Acting in combination with the ESP® system and with the additional support of lane-detection cameras and electromechanical steering, this forms the technical basis for autonomous driving. High-performance software now calculates the appropriate driving instructions for a safer and less stressful driving. Automatic lane changing is the next functional step. It calls for two additional features. First, a rear-mounted radar sensor that also detects fast-approaching vehicles and, second, a dynamic navigation map. Such maps, which operate via a mobile network connection, can keep drivers informed of current roadwork sites and local speed restrictions. And although drivers remain responsible for driving, they can limit themselves to monitoring the actions of the driver assistance system.
The Bosch portfolio offers all the required sensors and components
As well as the ESP® and electrical steering, Bosch offers all the sensors required to detect the full range of traffic conditions relevant for drivers and their vehicles. Depending on the extent of onboard functions offered by a particular vehicle, front detection is carried out by a radar sensor combined with a mono camera, or by a stereo camera. With the LRR3, Bosch offers a high-performance long-range radar sensor. With an aperture angle of up to 30 degrees, this sensor can detect objects at a distance of 250 meters. The new mid-range radar sensor, scheduled to go into series production in 2013, offers a range of 160 meters and an aperture angle of 45 degrees. Its cost is significantly lower, since it is designed to meet the requirements of the mass market. In addition to the currently available multi-purpose video camera that is equipped with one sensor element, Bosch has developed a stereo video camera that detects objects in 3D with the help of two sensors. As a result, it is able to calculate exactly how far objects are from the vehicle, as well as in which direction they are moving. Both sensor configurations enable full predictive emergency braking. Two adapted mid-range radar sensors assume the task of observing traffic behind the vehicle. These sensors have an aperture angle of 150 degrees and can detect objects up to 100 meters away. Finally, the parking assistant’s ultrasound sensors provide support during close-range steering maneuvers.
Level of automation continues to grow
“Fully autonomous driving will come about one step at a time,” Steiger says. At first, driving on highways with an ever greater degree of automation and at ever higher speeds will be possible, until the highway pilot can take over the entire trip. Two major challenges remain. First, inner-city driving, since automated vehicle functions have to deal with dense traffic involving a large number of road users traveling in every direction. Second, developing a concept to ensure that the system’s functions operate reliably in all types of driving situation.
- January 09, 2013
- Press releases
- Automotive technology
- Images: 2
