Tesla revolutionized the automotive industry by adopting a 48-volt electrical architecture for the Cybertruck, challenging the conventional 12-volt systems that have prevailed since the 1950s. Ahead of its debut, Tesla lent out several Cybertrucks to prominent car reviewers, one of whom was Jason Cammisa from Hagerty. In his video Camissa said Tesla sent a document to the CEOs of all other automakers outlining how to design a 48-volt vehicle. At the time we weren’t sure if it was a joke, or if Elon Musk had actually shared his plans openly with other companies.
As it turns out, Tesla did share its revolutionary design. On Wednesday Ford CEO, Jim Farley confirmed he had received the document this week, calling it “great for the industry,” prompting Musk to reply “You’re welcome.”
You’re welcome
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) December 7, 2023
Based on previous experience, it probably shouldn’t be too surprising that Tesla did this, as it has shown willingness to share technological advancements in the past by sharing patents. The question is however, will other automakers follow Tesla’s lead and adopt 48-volt architecture?
The shift to a 48-volt system enables significant improvements in vehicle functionality. Unlike other vehicles employing 48-volt mild-hybrid systems for specific features, such as adaptive suspension, the Cybertruck utilizes the higher voltage across the entire vehicle. Tesla engineers achieved this innovation, allowing them to introduce the industry’s first production vehicle with a steer-by-wire system without any physical connection to the wheels.
But the 48-volt system does much more than just that. It also enhances power delivery and efficiency.This allows for a 25% reduction in the number of copper cables, but it also means less power draw to run various systems, something especially critical for EVs.
With all of these benefits, it would make sense for other automakers to follow suit. And it looks like Ford will help Tesla push the industry towards it. Farley responded again this morning after having had a chance to read the full document, offering to work together to move suppliers “into the 48V future as well.” But even with this, it will likely take some time for us to see 48V system in other vehicles, but it is a step in the right direction.
Great to read the document and realize that our next-gen team has been on a similar path. Let’s work together to help the supply base move into the 48V future as well.
— Jim Farley (@jimfarley98) December 7, 2023
You can watch Jason Cammisa’s Cybertruck review below.
