BorgWarner has announced that it has secured contracts to supply its high-voltage coolant heater (HVCH) technology to two major OEMs for use in plug-in hybrid vehicle platforms. The HVCH units will operate at both 400 volt and 800 volt, covering a range of light-duty PHEV platforms, including pickup trucks. Production for both contracts is scheduled to begin in 2028.

One contract marks BorgWarner’s first HVCH application for a hybrid vehicle platform with a legacy automaker, while the other extends its existing partnership by expanding HVCH adoption to additional PHEV models. BorgWarner says its HVCH technology enhances system performance by providing efficient vehicle cabin and battery heating, particularly beneficial in cold conditions.

The HVCH features a compact, modular design to minimize weight and size. The device incorporates a resistive heating element and a smart controller for increased efficiency and rapid heat transfer to the coolant. The heater’s design offers low thermal mass, high power density, and fast response for both heating and cooling. The system also supports optimal battery temperature management and helps maintain ideal thermal conditions during fast charging.

BorgWarner says the HVCH heater is constructed for durability, utilizing thick film heating elements with a lifespan of over 15,000 hours. The technology includes mechanical anti-vibration characteristics, is non-flammable and integrates functional safety protocols, such as automatic shutdown in case of any detected thermal event.

“Securing these contracts is a milestone for our company and validates our technology leadership and expertise in battery and cabin heating,” said Volker Weng, VP of BorgWarner. “We value our strong relationships with both automakers, one marking our first BorgWarner eHeater win with the company and the other building upon our existing partnership through the expanded supply of our HVCHs on additional vehicle platforms.”

Source: BorgWarner