As vehicles evolve from traditional 12-volt (V) electrical systems toward 48-V architectures, new components are needed to manage higher power levels safely and efficiently.
Relays play a central role in this shift. They act as isolating switches that control and disconnect electrical circuits, ensuring safe power distribution and preventing faults, such as short circuits or battery discharge.
Gruner, a developer and manufacturer of electromechanical components, has introduced a portfolio of automotive relays designed for a broad range of vehicle applications, from conventional 12-V systems to modern 48, 400, and even 800-V architectures used in electric and hybrid vehicles.
These relays provide galvanic isolation, high current-carrying capacity, and mechanical robustness to withstand harsh automotive environments.
In addition to architecture-specific relays, Gruner offers relays dedicated to battery protection and energy management, helping ensure safe operation and reliable performance across electric platforms.
Key developments include:
- Relay type 860: A bank relay for 800-V electric vehicle systems with a continuous current of 250 A and short-duration capability of up to 16,000 A. It offers high shock resistance (120g / 20ms) and low holding power.
- Relay type 870: A main relay for 400-V plug-in hybrid systems with a continuous current of 100 A and a cut-off current of 600 A at 380 Vdc.
- Relay type 753: Designed to prevent battery discharge during long vehicle transport or downtime, supporting currents up to 250 A.
- Relay type 760: Developed for Lithium-ion battery systems, with a 250-A current rating and integrated contact monitoring to enable safe battery shutdown, including after impact events.
- Relay types 850 and 852: Suitable for energy management in 48-volt mild hybrid vehicles.
By providing compact, energy-efficient solutions across multiple voltage classes, these relays help enable safe and reliable power management in legacy and next-generation automotive platforms.
Alongside proven 12-volt and 24-volt devices for conventional systems, Gruner’s portfolio gives engineers scalable options to support the industry’s transition to electrified and high-power vehicle architectures.
Filed Under: Technology News