Valeo's i-StARS, which stands for Integrated Starter Alternator Reversible System, is a stop-start system based on a combined starter-alternator solution replacing the conventional alternator. Similar to an alternator, it is linked to the crankshaft through the belt drive. i-StARS enables the combustion engine to shut off when the driver begins to brake and the vehicle has dropped below a preset speed. For example, one Valeo application example in the market today stops the engine when the vehicle speed drops below five miles per hour (eight km/h) for automatic transmissions and below 13 miles per hour (20 km/h) for manual transmissions. i-StARS automatically restarts the engine in approximately 400 milliseconds, even when drivers unexpectedly change their minds on the braking sequences.
i-StARS is a 14-volt LIN-interfaced, belt-driven starter-alternator with integrated electronics that is scalable up to 8 kW. Compared to previous product generations, the advanced design provides increased torque and reliability, while improving cost, packaging and temperature management. In addition to LIN, it can interface with any OEM engine control unit architecture, such as RVC and C-Terminal.
As the vehicle's alternator, i-StARS's power electronics improve the system's electrical efficiency to make it one of the most efficient alternators on the market. The integrated control and power electronics reduce system cost and makes it easier to install during vehicle assembly. The i-StARS+ version is a seven-phase design, making it extremely quiet, giving it best-in-class noise performance. It can be applied to up to 4-liter gasoline and 3-liter diesel engines and easily adapts to both manual and automatic transmissions.
iBSG- Integrated Belt Starter Generator-48V solution
The iBSG (Integrated Belt Starter Generator) 48V system, a versatile and affordable solution, makes electrification more widely accessible. With its iBSG 48V, Valeo has successfully risen to the challenge of increasing the performance of vehicles driven by internal combustion engines, while also reducing their fuel consumption.
Valeo started supplying iBSG 48V alternator systems with built-in electronics as original equipment. As well as operating as an alternator and starter motor, this system fulfills four additional functions that reduce fuel consumption and therefore CO2 production by up to six percent. It recharges the battery to assist the engine and to supply power to the vehicle’s equipment and assists the engine when the vehicle is driving at a constant speed in order to cut fuel consumption.
The iBSG system has now been fitted on several hundreds of thousands of vehicles, including Asian and European vehicles. With this system, Valeo is actively contributing to the electrification of vehicles. The Group produces 30 million electric machines every year, confirming its long-standing expertise in the manufacture of electric systems, while also providing an effective response to the current environmental and legislative issues.
