Tesla wants to use the 48-volt electrical design that it pioneered in the Cybertruck in vehicles from other brands.
In a recent blog post, the automaker explained that it will use what it calls the Low Voltage Connector Standard (LVCS), designed for the Cybertruck's 48-volt design, in all of its vehicles to help simplify the hardware. And, as a North American fast charger (NACS) DC connector, we're pitching LVCS to other automakers.
LVCS reduces the number of types of electrical connectors needed in new vehicles down to six, according to Tesla, while meeting the requirements of 48-volt operation such as increased spacing between contacts. That is important to prevent arcing and shorting when the current has increased from the current industry standard of 12 volts to 48 volts.
Tesla LVCS connectors
Tesla believes that the construction of 48-volt electricity is “the right decision for the long term,” noting that it requires a quarter of the current to deliver the same amount of power, and saying that it will help ensure the reliable operation of autonomous driving systems.
After Tesla phased out 12-volt lead-acid batteries in its EVs, it made the full leap to 48-volt with the Cybertruck. Next-generation Ford EVs could do the same. But these aren't the first automotive applications for 48-volt tech.
Mid-range hybrids have used 48-volt electrical structures for more than a decade. Ironically, all of these systems were DC step-down and carried a 12-volt system for accessories—while suppliers extolled the virtues of using 48-volts for everything. Automakers didn't bite, however, because of the high cost of developing all the electronics at once.
Bosch 48-volt mild hybrid
Now, with autonomous vehicles, common parts, and simple connectors in mind, Tesla's framing of its 48-volt hardware as a new industry standard would allow costs to be shared.
It has worked for Tesla before. In 2022 it made a strong plea to the industry to use its NACS connector. By the end of 2023 all major brands in the North American market had committed to move to it.