As one of the world’s top automotive suppliers, Valeo is focusing its research and development on designing technologies to reduce carbon emissions on the vehicles of tomorrow. The company ranks among the leading patent filers in France, dedicating nearly 9% of its original equipment revenue to R&D. In coming years, the ix technologies presented below will enable Valeo to consolidate its position as a leader in automotive innovation.
Hybrid4All: Valeo’s hybrid technology makes it possible, for the first time, to offer hybrid powertrains on any vehicle and, more specifically, on entry-level models. By combining the Stop-Start function, regenerative braking and torque assist, Hybrid4all can deliver fuel savings of up to 15%.
BiLED™ projector: This technology features on the full LED headlamps developed by Valeo for the new Ford Mondeo, which is making its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show. Equipped with a shatter resistant plastic lens, the module enables the
headlamps to switch instantly from low to high beam. In addition, power use in the low beam position is just 26 watts. The BiLED™ module will be fitted on other automakers’ premium and mass market vehicles in the near future.
AquaBlade®: Valeo has revolutionized the windshield cleaning process by developing a system in which washer fluid is no longer sprayed through nozzles, but is delivered directly to the wiper blade itself via integrated tubes to tiny holes along its entire length. This halves the amount of washer fluid required, reducing the system’s weight by two kilograms. Since the fluid is wiped away as soon as it is deposited on the windshield, the AquaBlade® system also significantly improves driver visibility and thus increases safety.
A new multifunction control panel: Valeo has introduced a new tactile control panel on the BMW 1 and 3 Series, representing a first on these lines. The panel controls the heating and air conditioning system, while providing a preview of direct access buttons. The lightest of touches activates the screen and enables motorists to choose their favorite multimedia applications simply by pressing the corresponding button.
Electric supercharger: Valeo is the first automotive supplier to offer its customers a range of electric superchargers, which improve throttle response from small engines at low RPMs. When coupled with a Valeo energy recovery system, electric superchargers can deliver fuel savings of up to 20%.
Air Intake Module: This new air intake architecture for diesel and gasoline engines improves the air/fuel mixture drawn into the engine, enhancing the efficiency and performance of the cooling system and opening the way for cleaner, more compact turbo engines. It has been selected for Volkswagen’s new diesel engine platform.
With its focus on improving the energy efficiency of powertrain systems and enabling the recovery and reuse of a vehicle’s energy, Valeo is engineering innovative solutions to reduce CO2 emissions and enhance the driving experience. These innovations will ensure that the vehicles of tomorrow are increasingly self-sufficient and connected to their environment, while making driving safer and more intuitive. Valeo is strategically committed to acting as a global partner for automakers, capable of delivering widely affordable, innovative solutions and reducing carbon emissions for all types of vehicles.