Continental supplies a host of technology and system components
As a close cooperation and development partner of Volkswagen for many years, Continental played a significant role in the design and development of the ID. Buzz. The technology company made important technological contributions in virtually all areas of the cult van – from the software and central computer architecture to the brakes and the sophisticated thermal management system for cooling the batteries, for example.
Continental supplies a variety of high-performance components developed in-house for the ID. Buzz, including the In-Car Application Server 1 (ICAS 1). As a fully connected server, the ICAS 1 forms the central data hub in the vehicle and acts as an interface between the ID. Buzz and the digital world. Developed by Continental in close collaboration with its subsidiary Elekrobit, the central high-performance computer, which also supplies the operating system, allows new software functions and security updates to be installed in the vehicle at any time via a wireless connection. At the same time, the ICAS 1 offers range-optimized route planning and locates charging stations for the electric microbus, rendering “electric” traveling easier and more convenient.
Continental also developed a so-called plug-and-charge function for the ICAS 1, whereby the server’s software is able to authenticate the registered vehicle at supported charging stations when the charging cable is plugged in both at home and abroad and takes care of the charging process and payment on the basis of the stored charging contract.
In addition, Continental contributed its technology expertise to the thermal management system, tires and interior materials of the ID. Buzz. The vehicle is fitted with Continental’s EcoContact 6 Q summer tires ex works, which are mounted on 19-inch and 20-inch rims. Thanks to their particularly low rolling resistance, the tires save energy and give the ID. Buzz the longest possible range between charging cycles. ContiSeal technology is also especially suited to the requirements of the ID. Buzz. In the event of punctures caused by objects with a diameter of up to five millimeters, it reliably seals the tire tread, preventing around 90 percent of tire damage. For tire replacement and use during the cold season, Continental’s entire range of winter and all-year tires is also available.
Electric vehicles place particularly high demands on thermal management systems, with several cooling circuits needed for the batteries to ensure extended ranges and long battery life. Among other components, Continental supplies the battery sensors and coolant lines for the ID. Buzz. When selecting the combination of leather-free materials installed in the passenger compartment, such as Acella surface material for the door inserts, Continental was able to draw on its experience with the AMBIENC3 concept vehicle, which was developed on the basis of a VW T2 microbus. As a surface specialist, the technology company is thus driving the change from purely functional vehicle interiors to trendy, mobile living and work spaces.
More Intelligence with Server-based E/E Architectures
Digitalization opens the door in a world of new functions and services for future mobility. But this is also exponentially increasing the amount of information and data that has to be processed. Current E/E architecture already is coming to its limits. Automotive mega trends such as automated driving, software defined cars or connected mobility require more and more intelligence and computing power. A cornerstone to overcome these challenges is the Continental Body High Performance Computer as the central element of future vehicle E/E architecture. As a central node it allows the necessary data management capabilities for cloud and IoT services.
The New All-electric Way of Vacation Traveling
Continental counts among the suppliers equipping the new Volkswagen ID. Buzz minivan with a wide array of technologies.
No car represents this compulsion for adventure and the feeling of freedom more than Volkswagen’s legendary T1 minivan, lovingly dubbed simply the VW “Bus”, “Van”, or even “Camper”. Volkswagen’s new ID. Buzz has now transported this lust for life into the age of electric mobility. A new generation is hitting the road that stands for multi-functionality, sustainability and efficiency, equipped with the newest technologies from Continental.
Achieving sustainability for a climate-conscious future was just as important in developing the ID. Buzz as ensuring a comfortable driving experience. Volkswagen has once again succeeded in shaping the art of traveling for a whole new generation. And it’s precisely along this road to the future of mobility that Continental has been supporting the automaker – and doing so right from the start.
Find out more about the ID. Buzz in our magazin article