1. Home
2. Supplier Database
3. Major Suppliers
4. Bosch [Robert Bosch GmbH]
5. Bosch [Robert Bosch GmbH] Business Report FY ended Dec. 2019

Bosch [Robert Bosch GmbH] Business Report FY ended Dec. 2019

Factors
1) Net Sales
-In the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, the Company had net sales of EUR 77,721 million, a decrease of 0.9% from the previous year. Excluding currency effects during the year, the Company’s sales decreased by 2.1% during the year. In Europe, sales decreased by 1.4% compared to the previous year, with the largest decreases coming from Sweden, Italy and Belgium. In the Americas, sales increased by 5.3%, with a 5.9% increased from North America and 0.1% increase from South America. In the Asia Pacific and Africa region, sales declined by 3.7%.

2) EBIT
-The Company’s EBIT in the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 decreased by 47.2% to EUR 2,903 million. Earnings from 2018 include a one-time special effect in 2018 of approximately EUR 430 million due to changed reporting of the Company’s pension scheme. While increased investments contributed to the decline in earnings, the primary reason for the decline was the sharp decrease in automotive production. The weakening of previously high-margin markets and segments including China, India and with diesel passenger cars led to the drop in earnings.

3) Mobility Solutions Sales
-The Company’s Mobility Solutions business sector’s sales decreased by 1.6% in the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 to EUR 46,784 million. Excluding exchange-rate effects, sales in the business sector decreased by 3.1%. In particular, the sector’s powertrain technology business was negatively affected both by decreased automotive production as well as declining demand for diesel passenger vehicles. The losses in the powertrain business were partially offset by increased sales in electrification, transmission control and fuel supply businesses.

4) Mobility Solutions EBIT
-The Mobility Solutions business sector had EBIT of EUR 756 million in the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, a decrease of 78.6%. The weakness in various high-margin markets and segments in addition to increased investments and significant restructuring expenses caused the decrease in earnings.
 

Acquisitions

-At the beginning of 2019, the Company announced that it would acquire EM-motive GmbH, a joint venture which the Company originally had set up with Daimler in 2011. EM-motive is a manufacturer of electric motors, having produced approximately 450,000 motors in the company’s lifetime.

Midroc New Technology
-PowerCell Sweden AB announced that the Company has acquired all of Midroc New Technology’s shares in PowerCell Sweden AB. In total, 5,848,531 shares, representing 11.3% of the votes and capital in PowerCell, were acquired. Midroc New Technology is a venture capital company within Midroc Europe, an international company group headquartered in Stockholm. Midroc New Technology had been an owner in PowerCell since 2008 but had gradually decreased its ownership in the company. PowerCell and the Company signed a joint development and licensing agreement in April regarding the PowerCell S3 fuel cell stack for the automotive sector. (From a press release on November 15, 2019)

LAWA Solutions
-The Company’s Bosch Service Solutions, a leading solution provider in the area of business process outsourcing, is planning the takeover of start-up LAWA Solutions based in Giessen, Germany. LAWA Solutions GmbH, founded in 2009, specializes in cloud-based software products in the automotive industry. The Company uses technology embedded in the vehicle as part of its service. When reporting a malfunction, the driver can send important data from the car - such as location, vehicle type and error code. In addition to the expanded Company service portfolio, direct data transfer from the vehicle opens up new potential and advances the digital networking of software platforms. With the acquisition of LAWA Solutions, the last process steps in the value chain are digitalized. The start-up brings with it an independent, cloud-based end-to-end platform for recovery companies. (From a press release on February 4, 2019)

EM-motive GmbH
-The Company announced that it would takeover EM-motive, one of the most successful electric motor manufacturers in Europe. EM-motive GmbH was founded in 2011 as a joint venture between the Company and Daimler and has produced approximately 450,000 electric motors. The Company had previously secured an option to acquire the shares when the joint venture was founded. The complete takeover was thus already laid out in the joint venture contract as an option. The existing operation, EM-motive GmbH, will be transferred to the Company. The EM-motive joint venture was founded in order to make the early entry into electric motor production economical for both partners: With small numbers of companies initially involved in the market, the companies announced the joint venture and supported it with significant investment to develop and produce ofelectric motors. (From a press release on January 24, 2019)
 

Restructuring

-American Battery Solutions (ABS) announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire manufacturing and testing assets for high-voltage battery systems from Robert Bosch Battery Systems, a Company subsidiary. Under the proposed agreement, ABS will acquire the testing lab assets for high-voltage battery systems and lease a 40,000-square-foot space for prototype battery pack assembly and offices located in Lake Orion, Michigan. In addition, ABS will acquire the 172,000-square-foot facility located in Springboro, Ohio, where Robert Bosch Battery Systems has assembled lithium-ion battery packs for use in the automotive industry since 2009. ABS will supply modular battery solutions to transportation, industrial and commercial markets, primarily in North America and Europe, with target markets being high performance and autonomous EVs; delivery trucks, buses and utility vehicles; and other applications. (From a press release on May 20, 2019)
 

Business Partnership

PowerCell (fuel cell stack)
-The Company and PowerCell announced that they have signed an agreement regarding the development, production and sale of the PowerCell S3 fuel cell stack for the automotive segment. The agreement includes a joint development of the PowerCell S3 and a license whereby the Company gets the exclusive right to produce and sell the improved version of the PowerCell S3 for automotive applications. The Company will pay PowerCell EUR 50 million for the license and a royalty fee for every product sold. The current version of PowerCell S3 has a power range between 30 and 125 kW, runs on pure hydrogen and is based on PEM technology. The agreement does not cover the fuel cell stack being developed by PowerCell for the German Autostack Industrie project, ASI. ASI was partially founded by the German government with PowerCell as one of the partners along with the BMW, Daimler, Ford and Volkswagen. (From a press release on April 29, 2019)

China Mobile Intelligent Mobility Network (autonomous driving, LTE V2X)
-The Company and China Mobile’s wholly-owned subsidiary, China Mobile Intelligent Mobility Network Co., Ltd., signed a strategic alliance agreement on March 1, 2019. The two companies will set up a collaboration team and integrate their resources in areas such as automotive diagnostics, Telematics Service Platform, Electronic Horizon technology, autonomous driving, and LTE V2X communication. The alliance will also jointly develop products and solutions based on the needs in the market, ally in the area of 5G autonomous driving and create smart traffic solutions. (From media reports on April 1, 2019)

Banma Network Technology (connectivity)
-On March 18, 2019, the Company held a signing ceremony for a strategic alliance agreement with Banma Network Technology Co., Ltd. in Shanghai, China. The Company and Banma will make use of their expertise in the areas of the Internet and hardware to jointly develop intelligent automotive products. Banma is a startup established with the investment of a connected car fund created by SAIC and Alibaba with CNY 500 million investment each. Banma is planning to develop a car that “runs on the Internet.” (From media reports on March 18, 2019)

Sono Motors (Sion's central control unit)
-German mobility provider Sono Motors announced its partnership with the Company. The Company will provide the Sion's central control unit and a software-based solution for its intelligent networking. The Sion's data connection with the cloud will be managed by a connectivity control unit from the Company and by the Bosch Automotive Cloud Suite, which will also support a number of functions in the goSono app from Sono Motors. Cloud connectivity will also act as a basis for digital mobility services, such as electric charging and the eCall automated emergency call function. (From a press release on January 30, 2019)
 

Joint Ventures

-The Company’s subsidiary, Bosch India, executed a Joint Venture Agreement with Prettl India Private Limited for the purpose of carrying out the manufacturing, assembly and supply of mechanical and electromechanical components and assemblies. Prettl India will have 60% ownership while Bosch India will have a 40% stake in joint venture. Bosch India has agreed to subscribe an amount not exceeding INR 80 million and Prettl has agreed to subscribe an amount not exceeding INR 120 million in the equity share capital of the joint venture. (From Bosch India stock exchange filing on March 20, 2019)
 

Recent Developments

<Investments into start-ups by Robert Bosch Venture Capital (RBVC)>
-The Company informed that it is increasing its investment volume in external start-ups and is providing its venture capital subsidiary Robert Bosch Venture Capital GmbH (RBVC) with EUR 200 million for a fourth fund. RBVC, one of Europe’s largest corporate investors, specializes in innovative technology startups. Its portfolio includes more than 35 companies active in autonomous driving, AI, the internet of things (IoT), and even distributed ledger technologies such as blockchain. RBVC currently has a stake in three of the most promising artificial intelligence (AI) startups worldwide: DeepMap, Graphcore, and Syntiant. The investment professionals of RBVC look at more than 2,000 startups each year. Around one hundred are shortlisted. Sunnyvale (USA), Frankfurt and Stuttgart (Germany), Tel Aviv (Israel), Shanghai (China): RBVC has its own locations and contacts in the worldwide technology hotspots. (From a press release on February 26, 2019)

CelLink Corporation
-Robert Bosch Venture Capital GmbH (RBVC) completed a series B follow-on investment in the CelLink Corporation start-up. The start-up is based in San Carlos, California and develops and produces lightweight and low-cost flexible electric circuit technology for power electronics using a proprietary combination of manufacturing processes, designs, and materials. Other investors include Ford Motor Company and BMW i-Ventures. The new funding will be used to ramp up production to meet customer demand across its three primary markets of vehicle wiring, battery pack interconnects, and LED lighting. CelLink’s advancement in flexible circuit technology enables significant reductions in volume and weight over existing wiring technologies. For vehicle wiring, CelLink’s technology can provide up to 70% weight reduction and up to 90% volume reduction. (From a press release on October 29, 2019)

Prophesee
-Prophesee announced that it has closed USD 28 million in funding, bringing its total funding to date to USD 68 million. Prophesee developed a breakthrough Event-Based approach to machine vision that allows for significant reductions of power, latency and data processing requirements imposed by traditional frame-based systems. Led by the European Investment Bank, the round included staged investments from commercial backers, including existing investors such as iBionext, 360 Capital Partners, Robert Bosch Venture Capital, Supernova Invest and other undisclosed investors. The funds will be used to drive further development and commercialization of the unique Metavision sensor and underlying neuromorphic algorithm innovations that enables high-performance and predictive maintenance applications in Industry 4.0. A next-generation version will be aimed at vision-enabled opportunities in automotive and consumer markets, including autonomous driving and ADAS as well as VR/AR and IoT. (From a press release on October 28, 2019)

Trunk
-Robert Bosch Venture Capital GmbH (RBVC) announced an investment in Trunk, a startup based in Beijing, China. Trunk provides combined hardware and software solutions for autonomous trucking. It is the first company to go into production with autonomous trucking solutions for the container logistics market, currently valued at USD 19 billion. Trunk’s developments include fleet management and remote control software certified for automotive use (ISO 26262). The software can be fully integrated into customer operating platforms, such as terminal operating systems in ports. Trunk’s perception, decision-making, and planning modules offer best-in-class localization accuracy. By leveraging specially designed neural networks as well as inference and robotic technologies, Trunk is able to tailor its solutions to customer needs. (From a press release on September 27, 2019)

Nikoka
-Nikola Corporation announced two strategic investors from its prior funding rounds, the Company and Hanwha, have each invested at least USD 100 million into the Company, totaling USD 230 million. The Company has been an instrumental partner for Nikola in the development of its state-of-the-art heavy-duty vehicle fuel cell system and battery technology. The Company’s investment confirms its commitment to the development of hydrogen technology and infrastructure. Hanwha is a leader in renewable energy and solar panel manufacturing and is partnering with Nikola to assist in obtaining clean energy for its hydrogen fueling network. Hanwha is Nikola’s exclusive solar panel provider, generating the clean electricity that is critical to the production of renewable hydrogen. (From a press release on September 5, 2019)

Light Field Lab
-Robert Bosch Venture Capital GmbH (RBVC), the Company’s venture capital entity, announced that it has completed series A investment in Light Field Lab, a start-up in San Jose, California. RBVC co-leads USD 28 million alongside Comcast, Liberty Global, and Khosla Ventures. Light Field Lab develops holographic display technologies that provide immersive 3D experiences without virtual reality headsets. The company aims to create real-world holographic experiences with up to hundreds of gigapixels of resolution, creating immersive environments and realistic-looking holograms. Light Field Lab’s displays recreate the way rays of light bounce off objects in 3D space, making virtual objects which can be indistinguishable from reality. In addition to holographic displays, the company also provides the hardware and software platform required for content distribution. Light Field Lab’s technology can be used to create opportunities in areas such as automotive, retail and public displays. (From a press release on August 12, 2019)

Teralytics
-Robert Bosch Venture Capital GmbH (RBVC), the Company’s venture capital entity, announced that it is leading a USD 17.5 million investment round in Teralytics. Teralytics is developing a platform to provide mobility analyses based on data from telecommunications networks. It is working with telecommunications providers on solutions that help to understand population mobility. Mobile devices give the company the most accurate information about people’s movements. The data helps mobility providers, cities and transport services to understand, predict and improve movement flows. In addition to the existing investors Atomico and Lakestar, RBVC and other strategic and financial investors participating in this investment round include Deutsche Bahn Digital Ventures, innogy Ventures, LBBW Venture Capital and Liil Ventures. (From a press release on August 6, 2019)

Xometry
-Robert Bosch Venture Capital GmbH (RBVC), the Company’s corporate venture capital entity, announced that it has joined a USD 55 million growth financing round in Xometry, along with Greenspring Associates, Dell Technologies Capital, BMW iVentures, Foundry Group and Highland Capital Partners. Xometry utilizes AI to generate instant pricing, lead times and design for manufacturing feedback for custom parts. The Gaithersburg, Maryland-based company currently has 250 employees and is on pace to generate around USD 100 million in revenue in 2019. With this latest round of funding, Xometry is now targeting expansion into Europe. (From a press release on July 11, 2019)

AutoAI
-Robert Bosch Venture Capital GmbH (RBVC) announced that it is participating in AutoAI’s USD 104 million Series A funding round. AutoAI strives to provide integrated Internet of Vehicle (IoV) solutions, based on big data and its smart cloud platform. AutoAI’s platform for the connected vehicle aims to bring rich content and personalized services from the internet to the car. The platform includes in-vehicle components, like a telematics box and a vehicle optimized Android operating system, as well as data collection, storage and analysis solutions in the cloud. The IoV market for connected services in China is gaining momentum and is expected to grow from USD 0.6 billion in 2017 to USD 39.5 billion in 2030. This strategic investment will help AutoAI’s competitiveness and its ability to provide professional IoV services to OEMs. (From a press release on January 24, 2019)

<Other recent developments>
5G networks
-The Company has applied for 5G licenses in select German locations with the Federal Network Agency. The Company plans to work with local partners to set up local 5G networks over the next year to better utilize the potential of Industry 4.0. The Company has initially applied for 5G operating licenses for the lead plant for Industry 4.0 in Stuttgart-Feuerbach and the research campus in Renningen. 5G not only ensures efficient networking of mobile devices and wireless sensors, but also provides the basis for completely new system concepts. 5G can be used to control a mobile robot in real time from a local production cloud. This reduces costs, increases flexibility and simplifies maintenance. (From a press release on November 21, 2019)

No Production Days
-Bosch India announced that to align production with sales requirements, various plants belonging to Powertrain Solutions division would continue to halt production by up to 10 days per month per plant from October through December. (From a press release on October 4, 2019)

Strategy against climate change and air pollution
-The Company’s strategy against climate change and air pollution focuses on two themes: Advancing the development of e-mobility and achieving further refinements to the internal combustion engine. The Company has also developed iDisc, which reduces 90% of the brake dust produced compared to a conventional brake disc. The company is in contact with 100 municipalities and regions across Europe with the aim of improving air quality. It is also collecting anonymous data in Stuttgart and neighboring municipalities to determine how traffic must change to reduce emissions. Another pollution reducing measure is the e-scooter sharing service COUP. With a total of 5,000 electric scooters across Berlin, Paris and Madrid, COUP promotes clean personal mobility. Triffix, a Company startup, uses its app to provides users with tailor-made traffic information and alternative routes for their journey directly from a traffic control center, helping reduce congestion and travel time. (From a press release on July 25, 2019)

Global purchasing volume management via cloud and platform solutions
-The Company plans to manage more than 85% of its global purchasing volume via cloud and platform solutions by 2021. Another of its goals is to provide suppliers in the future with real-time insights into production requirements, thus optimizing transport networks and reducing CO2 emissions. The Company expects a purchasing volume of more than EUR 40 billion in 2019. In total, it has spent more than EUR 340 billion over the past decade on sourcing raw materials, services or capital goods. The Company employs approximately 37,000 people in purchasing and logistics to supply about 280 factories each day with more than 300 million parts. It is continuing to expand its digital supply chains on its way to become the leading provider of IoT and mobility solutions. (From a press release on July 11, 2019)

Compensation for residual and unavoidable carbon emissions
-The Company announced that none of its over 400 locations worldwide, and their engineering, manufacturing, and administrative facilities, will leave a carbon footprint by 2020. The Company emits approximately 3.3 million metric tons of carbon per year. The Company has already reduced carbon emissions relative to its value creation by nearly 35% since 2007. Starting in 2020, the Company will compensate for residual and unavoidable carbon emissions primarily by buying green power from legacy plants and taking part in carbon offset programs. In the years leading to 2030, the Company will gradually increase the share of renewable energy in the power that it generates and buys, and will invest EUR 1 billion to boost its locations’ energy efficiency. It also intends to enlarge Company-owned photovoltaic systems such as those in place at the Nashik and Bidadi locations in India. The Company expects to achieve a tenfold increase in installed energy capacity with these actions. (From a press release on May 9, 2019)

Industry 4.0
-The Company plans to generate annual sales of over EUR 1 billion with Industry 4.0 Connected systems for manufacturing and logistics will make factories more efficient, flexible, and productive. The Company will present a factory of the future, which operates with the help of AI, at Hannover Messe 2019. The Company says 5G enables smoother communications between machines and systems. (From a press release on March 27, 2019)

Parking assistance system
-The Company informed that more than half the cars newly registered in Germany in 2017 have an automatic emergency braking assistance system. Approximately 55% of newly registered compact and mid-range passenger cars in Germany are equipped with at least one parking assistance system, such as proximity alarms, parking assist, or reverse cameras, as standard. In contrast, approximately one in four premium vehicles have at least one parking assistance system fitted as standard. The EU is currently preparing legislation for the mandatory installation of emergency brake assistants, according to which, all new vehicle models are expected to have by 2022. In addition to parking and brake assistance systems, fatigue detection and lane assistance functions are becoming increasingly prevalent. Under 25% of cars have Adaptive Distance and Cruise Control (ACC). 9% of new cars in Germany feature a semi-automatic traffic jam assistant. Parking assistants and automatic emergency braking systems are also becoming increasingly popular in other European countries. With consistent technical development of driver assistance systems, the Company is creating the technical basis for future automated driving. (From a press release on February 20, 2019)
 

Contracts

-The Company and Nikola Motor have jointly developed a fuel cell drive for the electric heavy-duty truck Nikola Two Alpha. Nikola Trucks are equipped with Company innovations such as the Mirror Cam System, Perfectly Keyless and the Servotwin steering system. The technology and system approach of the presented truck is transferable to all Nikola trucks. These include the Nikola One with a sleeping cabin and the Nikola Tre, a hydrogen-powered truck for the European market. Engineering teams from Company locations in the U.S. and Germany have spent more than 220,000 hours of development for the Nikola trucks. The Company and Nikola also jointly the vehicle chassis with the integrated fuel cell drive. The Company also supplies the vehicle control unit for the Nikola Two. (From a press release on April 17, 2019)
 

Outlook

-For the fiscal year ending December 31, 2020, the Company expects that its sales will total approximately EUR 76 billion excluding any currency exchange rate effects, a slight decrease from the previous year. Sales and EBIT margin in the Mobility Solutions business sector are expected to slightly decrease, following the overall Company trend.

-In the long term, the Company expects to achieve an average annual sales growth of 8%, with up to 3% stemming from acquisitions. The Company also aims to achieve an EBIT margin from operations of approximately 7%.
 

Corporate Strategy

Regional planning
-The Company’s capital expenditure for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019 was distributed across its regions of operations as follows:

• Europe: EUR 3.0 billion
• Asia Pacific: EUR 1.5 billion
• North and South America: EUR 440 million

<Europe>
-The Company’s capital expenditure in Germany decreased from EUR 1.8 billion to EUR 1.7 billion in the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019. As with the previous year, the largest investment was dedicated to the development of the future wafer fab in Dresden.

-The Company’s capital expenditure to European locations outside of Germany increased from EUR 1.2 billion to EUR 1.3 billion. Investments included expanding manufacturing capacity of power electronics in Hatvan and expanding the engineering center in Budapest. The Company expanded manufacturing capacity of exhaust gas treatment systems in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, and increased capacity for automotive electronics in Cluj, Romania. Other automotive locations which received significant investments included Braga, Portugal, which manufactures head units and automotive display systems, as well as Bursa, Turkey.

<Asia Pacific>
-The Company’s capital expenditure in the Asia Pacific totaled EUR 1.5 billion in the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, an increase from EUR 1.4 billion the previous year. China was the primary target of the investments in the region, specifically focusing on gasoline direct injection systems and electromobility components and systems in the Mobility Solutions business sector. Another focal point of investment was Long Thanh, Vietnam, where the Company produces push belts for continuously variable transmissions.

<North and South America>
-The Company invested approximately EUR 440 million in the Americas during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, compared to EUR 470 million in the previous year. The Company invested in facilities in Charleston, Anderson and Florence, South Carolina as well as several facilities in Mexico.

-The Company generated operating revenue of EUR 77.9 billion in 2018. In 2018, it acquired 30 electromobility projects worth billions of euros. By 2025, the Company wants to increase sales in the field of electromobility to EUR 5 billion. In China, series production of compact drives for electric cars will begin in 2019. The Company estimates that every fourth new commercial vehicle and almost every third new Chinese commercial vehicle will be at least partially electric-powered as soon as 2030. The Company plans to quadruple the number of employees working in AI from 1,000 to 4,000 by 2021. (From a press release on January 30, 2019)

Development in the automotive market
-In the Mobility Solutions business sector, the Company aims to play a leading role in developing alternative forms of mobility corresponding to the trends of electrified, autonomous and connected mobility. As such, the Company is focusing on two roles: one as a supplier of automotive components and subsystems and another to support the mobility lifecycle business involving operators of fleets and platforms. The Company aims to further develop the sector in its existing activities while also expanding its portfolio with additional investments, for example as seen with the creation of the Bosch eBikes division.

-From 2013 through 2020, the Company will have invested approximately EUR 3 billion in new growth areas. In the fiscal year ending December 31, 2020, the Company expects to invest EUR 500 million in electromobility, more than EUR 600 million on autonomous driving and EUR 100 million on connected mobility solutions.

-In terms of electromobility, the Company has highlighted its strategy of utilizing a broad portfolio in both components and systems, ranging from 48-volt mild hybrid systems to fully electric drives. Its portfolio also spans a wide range of segments, from electric bikes to commercial vehicles. This has enabled the Company to from a variety of partnerships. For example, the Company is working with Powercell to push the commercialization of the fuel-cell powertrain, with plans to launch a fuel-cell stack in 2022. The Company is also dedicated to reducing emissions from internal combustion engines including through the use of renewable synthetic fuels.

-Since the beginning of 2018, the Company has received orders worth approximately EUR 13 billion in electromobility, including series projects for electric drives of passenger and light commercial vehicles. The mobility division currently employs 14,000 software developers and invests EUR 3 billion annually in software competence. The Company invests EUR 400 million annually in emission-free mobility. With its 48-volt battery, the Company is aiming for a leading position in the market and has signed a long-term cooperation with the Chinese Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) for the corresponding battery cells. The Company also aims to minimize the particulate emissions from braking by introducing the iDisc and regenerative braking system. The Company will invest EUR 4 billion by 2022 for further development in autonomous driving. The Company is also working together with the three largest ride-hailing providers, DiDi, Lyft and Uber. By 2025, more than 2.5 million shuttle vehicles will be on the road worldwide. The Company wants to enable these providers with its solutions in areas of electrification, automation, networking and personalization. (From a press release on September 10, 2019)

-The Company is pursuing two development paths on the way to accident-free mobility. One path involves driver assistance systems will enable semi-automated driving for private vehicles (autonomy levels 2 and 3). The second path leads to driverless driving from the beginning of the next decade (levels of autonomy 4 and 5). By 2022, the Company expects to invest up to EUR 4 billion in this segment. Approximately 4,000 developers at the Company work on automated driving. As early as 2019, the Company will generate EUR 2 billion in sales from driver assistance systems. (From a press release on January 30, 2019)

-Given the decline in the automotive markets since 2017 and the shift in powertrain trends, the Company will implement significant restructuring measures in its Mobility Solutions business sector. The restructuring will affect personnel at Company locations in Europe, Asia and Americas. In the Powertrain Solutions division, the Company will have to adjust to the trend of decreasing numbers of diesel passenger vehicles. Other changes include restructuring of personnel in the Automotive Steering division, realigning its steering column business and adjustments to the Automotive Electronics division.
 

-In the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, the Company’s Mobility Solutions business sector focused its research and development on the current industry trends of electrification, driver assistance systems, autonomous driving, display and infotainment systems and sensors. In addition, the increase in investment within the sector reflects growing project complexity in the field, especially in automotive electronics.

-In regards to autonomous driving systems and Advanced Driver Assistance systems, the Company is currently focused on developing systems to enable hands-free highway assist driving. These systems enable drivers to take their hands off the steering wheel during partially automated driving on the highway. Currently, these systems can be used in the U.S. and China, but not in Europe.
 

R&D Structure

-As of December 31, 2019, the Company has approximately 72,600 employees working in research and development, an increase of approximately 3,900 employees over the previous year. The increase in employees was driven by expansion of research and development facilities in the Asia Pacific region. Additional research and development positions were created in Germany. Approximately 57% of the Company’s employees working in research and development are located outside of Germany, with 38% working in the Asia Pacific region.
 

R&D Facilities

-On November 29, 2019, the Company announced a plan to create a new hydrogen fuel cell center in Wuxi, China. The new lab in Wuxi will work on the research and development and prototype production of powertrain products for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. The center will have comprehensive facilities for the development of vital components to battery stacks and fuel cell systems. The Company aims to complete construction by the end of 2020 and launch small-lot production in 2021. (From some media reports on November 30, 2019)

-The Company officially began the expansion of the Bosch subsidiary in Holzkirchen with representatives of Bosch Engineering and ITK Engineering. By fall 2021, a new office building and a parking garage will be built. The expansion will have three and a half floors, span 17,000 square meters, and feature offices and laboratory space for 900 employees. ITK Engineering will use its tailor-made software and system solutions to help shape the future of automated driving, electromobility, Industry 4.0, railway technology and other industries. As part of the planned further growth, around 250 employees will initially move to the building. Electronic laboratories are created in which ECUs can be put into operation and tested. The second building will be a parking garage with approximately 800 parking spaces and up to 200 charging stations. (From a press release on October 16, 2019)

-The Company announced the opening of a new engineering center in Sofia, Bulgaria. The new center will have approximately 200 talented software professionals develop innovative technologies for the automotive industry in areas such as driving assistance, automated driving, and electric mobility. The new center will cooperate with the Company's engineering centers in Budapest, Hungary and Cluj, Romania, as well as with leading global car manufacturers. With the opening of the engineering center, the Company will create a large-scale associates’ development program. (From a press release on October 8, 2019)

-The Company’s Automotive Multimedia Division has officially opened the Digital Cabin R&D Center in Zhangjiang, Pudong on July 31, 2019. The new center has a floor space of 2,500 square meters. This is the division’s third research and development center in China, following ones in Suzhou and Wuhu. The new center will focus on the research and development of products related to smart digital cabins, such as infotainment, in-vehicle computers, interior monitoring systems, and 5G-V2X in-vehicle connectivity control units. (From a press release on July 31, 2019)

-The Company began operations of a new acoustics testing center in Abstatt. The center is designed to create the ideal conditions for an efficient NVH development process that will reduce development time and increase a vehicle's acoustic quality.  Bosch Engineering supports automotive manufacturers with NVH optimization through a comprehensive development approach. The heart of the acoustics testing center is a specially equipped vehicle roller tester. It is suitable for vehicles with a wide variety of drive systems such as combustion engine, hybrid, electric drive and drivetrains, such as all-wheel, front and rear wheel drive. With an output of 150 kW each, the four rollers cover a speed range of up to 250 km/h and are independently controllable. Spatially separated from the chassis dynamometer are laboratory equipment for detailed vibration and sound power measurements, modal analyses, and sound studio. The lab has features including binaural headphone audio and higher-order Ambisonics playback via 13 speakers. (From a press release on April 11, 2019)

-The Robert Bosch Center for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (RBC-DSAI) was inaugurated at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras. The Company will invest EUR 2.5 million over five years in the center. The mission of the new center is to create societal impact through multidisciplinary interactions with government, academic, research and industrial collaborators on core challenges in Data Science and AI. The RBC-DSAI will undertake foundational research in many areas of AI and Data Science, namely deep learning, reinforcement learning, network analytics, interpretable machine learning, and domain aware AI. (From a press release on February 6, 2019)
 

R&D Activities

-The Company is continuing to research and develop measures to reduce emissions for gasoline engines. This includes the development of systems which utilize varying injection pressures, the development of systems which utilize multiple injections, and additional exhaust treatment systems.

-At the start of 2018, the Company discontinued research into current and future battery cell technologies as the original goal of the research was to determine the feasibility of in-house battery cell production. As such, the Company dissolved the Lithium Energy and Power GmbH & Co. KG joint venture held with GS Yuasa and Mitsubishi Corporation, which focuses on the development of next-generation lithium-ion battery technology. The Company will also end operations of Seeo, Inc., which focuses on the research of solid-state battery technology, in 2019.

-On December 9, Mercedes-Benz announced an automated ride-hailing pilot project with the Company in San Jose, California to provide additional insights for the development of its SAE Level 4/5 automated driving system. The service will initially be available to a select group of users with an app developed by Daimler Mobility AG to book a journey through automated S-Class models from a defined pick-up point to their destination. The Company has developed and manufactured the components for urban automated driving. An app-based mobility service for conventionally driven Mercedes-Benz vehicles went into operation in the Bay Area in the fall of 2019. The service is also available in Berlin, Germany. (Daimler press release on December 9, 2019)

-Bosch Corporation (Bosch), a Japanese subsidiary of the Company, will pursue development of solutions under the concepts of PACE (Personalized, Automated, Connected and Electrified) at the Tokyo Motor Show. For electrification, a Japanese car manufacturer is planning to sell a model at the beginning of 2020 that will feature Bosch’s 48V mild hybrid system. Moreover, in 2020, vehicles fitted with the eAxle powertrain are scheduled to be launched in the Chinese market. In terms of personalization, Bosch has started mobility services such as the eScooter sharing service COUP and the commuter carpooling service SPLT, which support personal mobility needs. Furthermore, Battery in the Cloud, the battery management cloud service provided to DiDi in China, is proposed to Japanese OEMs and mobility service providers. (From a press release on October 24, 2019)

-The Company announced that the OCEAN12 project partners will be working together through the end of 2021 to develop various energy-efficient components that can collect and process data from the surroundings of vehicles and aircraft. These include surround sensors such as cameras, lidar and radar sensors, as well as microprocessors for processing data. The electronics translate the collected data into commands for downstream components. OCEAN12 is a European collaboration of 27 partners from the fields of semiconductor technology, electronics, aerospace technology, and automotive technology. The Company leads the German consortium, which consists of 14 organizations. Funding for the OCEAN12 project, worth EUR 103.58 million, comes from the EU and national organizations. In total, sponsors will contribute EUR 48 million to the project from mid-2018 to the end of 2021. Development in the OCEAN12 project is based primarily on Fully Depleted Silicon On Insulator (FD-SOI) technology from OCEAN12 project partner GlobalFoundries. Through this technology, partners can develop components that offer a combination of maximum energy efficiency with advanced computing power. (From a press release on September 25, 2019)

-Escrypt GmbH, a Company subsidiary and a provider of onboard security systems, will develop a new service to provide reference standards, including requirements and indices, necessary for establishing security systems. Onboard security is becoming increasingly important as connected become more prevalent. In the midst of the trend to make security measures mandatory and establish global standards of security systems on a global scale, Escrypt offers this service to assist automakers and parts suppliers. (From an article in the Nikkan Jidosha Shimbun on August 27, 2019)

-The Company and Daimler announced that they have been approved by the competent authorities in Baden-Wurttemberg for their automated parking system in the parking garage of the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart. The automated valet parking system will be the world’s first fully automated driverless parking function (SAE Level 4) to be officially approved for everyday use. The intelligent parking garage infrastructure from the Company is combined with Mercedes-Benz vehicle technology. Company sensors in the parking garage monitor the driving corridor and its surroundings and provide information needed to control the vehicle. The technology in the car converts the information from the infrastructure into driving maneuvers. In this way, the cars can change floors and immediately stop if the sensors detect an object within the parking garage. (From a press release on July 23, 2019)

-Invest in Austria announced that the Company devoted more than EUR 125 million or 9% of its revenue generated in Austria to research and development. The Company is investing in the future, as shown by its 140 new employees, especially in the field of research and development. It operates international competence centers in Vienna, Linz and Hallein for mobility solutions. Moreover, the developers in Vienna make valuable contributions within the Company in creating innovation solutions for connected mobility such as driverless parking. More than 1,000 employees in Austria focus on development activities. In 2019, the Company will hire an additional 130 engineers for development activities within the country. (From Invest in Austria press release on July 3, 2019)

-The Company estimates that 75% of all new passenger cars and light commercial vehicles will have a combustion engine by 2030. As such, the Company will continue to invest in the optimization of gasoline and diesel engines. The Company will also use AI to further develop engines. With AI, the Company can control anticipated exhaust gas aftertreatment according to patterns that result from individual driving behavior. This can further reduce vehicle emissions. The Company is also currently testing a mobile measurement box in Stuttgart, Paris and Marseille. The boxes closely measure the pollutant content of the ambient air. The measurement results and simulations should provide further insights into the relationships between emissions and environment. The Company aims to generate EUR 5 billion in sales with electromobility by 2025. The Company has already implemented powertrain projects for 50 electric vehicle platforms. In 2018, the Company acquired 30 new projects. The Company will invest approximately EUR 4 billion in automation by 2022. (From a press release on May 9, 2019)

-The Company is providing eCall automatic emergency notification devices for a pilot project started in February 2019 by SBI Insurance Co., Ltd. and SB C&S Corp. aimed at providing on-board telematics services. In the project, SBI Insurance and SB C&S will examine various telematics services to support safe motoring for drivers based on driving behavior data collected by the Company’s eCall device. The pilot environment conducted by SB C&S uses the Company’s eCall device, Telematics eCall Plug, and a platform service, IoT Core Connect that connects services requiring IoT, provided by SoftBank Technology Corp. The Telematics eCall Plug, incorporates a triaxial acceleration sensor and an algorithm to calculate data from the sensor, enabling it to detect the impacts and maneuvers such as braking, acceleration deceleration, and steering. The Company’s eCall service is provided in over 50 countries and regions around the world, including Europe, Japan, Brazil and North America. The eCall service with multilingual support has already been adopted by many automakers, such as Daimler AG. (From a press release on March 4, 2019)
 

Technological Alliance

-The Company has worked with Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbH to develop a rolling chassis. The rolling chassis comprises a pre-integrated chassis with axles, electrical powertrain, brakes, steering and thermal management system. Future iterations of the rolling chassis will include automated driving functions.

-Escrypt GmbH (Escrypt), a German security solution subsidiary of the Company, announced that it has entered a partnership with KPMG International Cooperative, a consulting company for information security management systems. These two companies will cooperate to develop certified cybersecurity management systems for vehicle platforms. Automotive cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important as seen with the World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations (WP.29). Escrypt aims to provide tools that will help automakers and parts suppliers to efficiently meet future cybersecurity requirements. (From an article in the Nikkan Jidosha Shimbun on December 13, 2019)

-Automobili Pininfarina announced a strategic collaboration with the Company and Benteler to jointly develop a high-performance EV platform. The companies will evaluate the best technical concept as well as the market potential for the platform that will underpin future Pininfarina models. The parties have also agreed to evaluate opportunities to provide a basis for other car brands' performance EVs to obtain added synergies and enable more rapid adoption of electromobility across all market segments, including the luxury and performance markets. Pininfarina recently confirmed its strategic plan to bring a range of high-performance and luxury electric vehicles to market following the critically acclaimed Battista electric hypercar, which is due to begin production in late 2020 in Italy. (From a press release on September 9, 2019)

-The Company and Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) announced a long-term strategic cooperation agreement. The partners will first jointly specify high-performance battery cells. CATL will then design, develop, and manufacture these cells in accordance with Company requirements. The cells are then to be used in the 48-volt battery developed by the Company. The Company’s plant in Wuxi, China, started making the first generation of the 48-volt battery in late 2018. The latest version of the 48-volt battery features decreased size and passive cooling. The Company’s portfolio for 48-volt systems extends beyond the 48-volt battery to encompass other system components such as DC/DC converters and electrical machines. With this technology, the Company aims to help all vehicle classes meet future emissions requirements and offer affordable hybridization. (From a press release on September 5, 2019)

-FAW Jiefang Automotive Co., Ltd., and the Company signed a strategic alliance agreement on May 13, 2019. The two companies will work together in the areas of connected cars, new energy vehicles, and China VI engine systems. The Company will provide FAW Jiefang Automotive with technologies regarding advanced connectivity, information security, and intelligent cars. At the Bosch ConnectedWorld conference, the two companies also jointly introduced an upgrading technology called FOTA (Firmware On-The-Air) developed by the Chinese commercial car manufacturer. According to the announcement, FOTA will allow the car drivers to upgrade ECUs, VCUs, and controls of in-car interaction devices and entertainment functions remotely. (From a press release on May 17, 2019)
 

Product Development

General powertrain technology advancements
-The Company believes that the combustion engine has significant potential in the market, with two-thirds of all new passenger cars and light commercial vehicles featuring a combustion engine as part of the powertrain. As such, the Company has continued to develop systems to optimize the engine, specifically in terms of reducing environmental impact. In diesel engines, the Company has developed a system to add a second inlet point for AdBlue additive to reduce NOx emissions. The Company has also developed various engine modifications and a next-generation particulate filter to reduce untreated particulate emissions from gasoline engines.

Technologies shown at CES 2020
-The Company will present a 3D display for the automotive cockpit at CES 2020. It uses passive 3D technology to create a real three-dimensional effect of images and warning signals. This allows information to be recognized faster than on standard displays. The system for the spatial representation works without supplemental systems such as eye tracking or 3D glasses. With the IoT Shuttle technology platform, the Company will show solutions for car manufacturers and MSPs for the electrification, automation, networking and personalization of shuttles. The Company will also present solutions like intelligent front camera, radar sensors, automated valet parking, vehicle computer, keyless system, fuel cell system, rolling chassis and SiC technology for powerful electric vehicles. (From a press release on December 13, 2019)

India eCall service
-The Company started providing eCall services in India in October 2019 and has enabled OEMs to install eCall service systems in vehicles. Indian eCall service is available 24/7 and 365 days a year. The Company’s solution allows car drivers across India to establish an audio connection in an emergency and receive help through emergency services.  The eCall service covers 27 states and 5 union territories in India and is provided in two languages, Hindi and English. Bosch Service Solutions has created a partner network of relevant PSAP (Public Safety Answering Points) contacts, which enables access to over 13,500 verified hospitals and police stations. Furthermore, the Company set up two new and dedicated data and operations centers in Bangalore and Coimbatore in 2019. (From a press release on December 10, 2019)

Interior monitoring system
-The Company has developed a new interior monitoring system using cameras and AI. The system can go into series production in 2022. This will enable safety technology that can warn the driver of fatigue or distraction, to eventually become standard in new vehicles in the EU. The new system can detect this danger and not only inform predetermined parties on a smartphone within seconds, but also alert emergency services if necessary. The camera can also be used to control infotainment systems through gesture controls or gaze detection. In addition, the system can monitor the front passenger and passengers in the back seat through a camera installed above or below the rear view mirror overlooking the entire interior. The system can detect and warn the driver if children in the back seat have loosened their seat belt. If a rear passenger leans too far forward or at an angle with their feet in the next seat, airbags and belt tensioners cannot provide optimum protection in an accident. The interior camera provides information about the sitting posture and adjusts airbags and belt tensioners to provide the best possible protection. (From a press release on December 5, 2019)

Level 4 autonomous valet parking system utilizing Internet of Vehicles
-On October 23, 2019, the Company announced a new Internet of Vehicles-based level-4 autonomous valet parking system jointly with GAC R&D. The Company will provide the autonomous valet parking system and infrastructure, including hardware and software, for users at the GAC R&D parking lots. Users can operate the system remotely using their mobile phones to load and unload the cars or choose the location of the vehicles remotely. For safety reasons, the system will restrict speeds in the parking lots between 5 to 7 kilometers per hour. The system is expected to be added to GAC-brand models for use at several commercial buildings within a few years. (From a release on October 23, 2019)

Other technologies shown at 2019 Tokyo Motor Show
-Bosch Corporation (Bosch), a Japanese subsidiary of the Company, announced that it will exhibit future mobility solutions at the Tokyo Motor Show. In the field of electrification, the company will have the Japanese premiere of fuel cell systems, including an Electric Air Compressor (EAC). The EAC is a component that sends oxygen to the cathode side of a fuel cell stack to improve efficiency. A 48-volt mild hybrid system and Web-based validation system will also debut in Japan. The web-based validation system enables more convenient and efficient project development. It achieves a shorter development time by sharing data acquired from test rides and verification experiments and updating systems and software of connected vehicle applications. In the connected solutions field, Bosch will present an in-vehicle monitoring system that detects the state of the driver and warns the driver if necessary. Additionally, Bosch will display technologies in the automated solutions field. (From a press release on October 11, 2019)

Silicon carbide microchips
-The Company believes that its new microchips made of silicon carbide (SiC) will set the pace in the power electronics. SiC semiconductors have better electrical conductivity. SiC semiconductors introduce carbon atoms into the crystalline structure of ultra-pure silicon. It ensures that 50% less energy is lost in the form of heat. These savings translate into more efficient power electronics and more energy for the electric motor, and thus increased battery range. Through SiC semiconductors, motorists can drive 6% further on a single battery charge. The semiconductors also help manufacturers cut back on the expensive cooling systems for powertrain components. (From a press release on October 8, 2019)

Semiconductors as part of a pyrotechnical safety switch
-The Company’s semiconductors help prevent the risk of electric shock after an accident in electric vehicles. Specially designed microchips deactivate the vehicle’s power circuits in a fraction of a second. This enables rescue crews to begin work immediately and ensures that first responders and the vehicle’s occupants remain safe. The Company supplies vehicle manufacturers with semiconductor chips for incorporation in special systems that safely disconnect the battery in an accident. The semiconductor devices are part of a pyrotechnical safety switch system, or pyrofuse. These systems “blow out” whole sections of the cable connection to the high-voltage battery by means of miniature explosive charges, thus quickly and effectively shutting off power circulation. The CG912 integrated airbag system IC used in the pyrofuse system is an application-specific integrated circuit or ASIC. (From a press release on October 1, 2019)

Twine4Car automotive infotainment service platform
-ACCESS CO., LTD announced that an integration of its ACCESS Twine for Car (Twine4Car) automotive infotainment service platform will be available for the Company’s Android-based in-vehicle infotainment-system (IVI). The collaboration helps the Company extend its core platform with a flexible app solution, which includes an app store, a fully OEM brandable HMI, media sharing and multi-device synchronised content playback. The joint solution will debut and be demonstrated at IAA. ACCESS will present ACCESS Twine for Car 2.0, a unique solution that combines a white-labelled content streaming service with an infotainment services platform. Its automotive app enables OEMs to deliver extended functionality over the vehicle lifetime without the need for OTA vehicle updates. ACCESS Twine for Car HMI is a custom HMI created for IAA to show how OEMs can provide a branded experience for their customers. Features include local media and app playback on Company IVI devices. Since 1984, ACCESS has provided advanced IT solutions centered around mobile and network software technologies to a variety of industries, including the automotive sector. (From a press release on September 19, 2019)

MPC3 mono-video camera
-The Company announced it has succeeded in raising camera technology in the car to a new level. The new MPC3 mono-video camera is optimized to meet multi-path approach for reliable object recognition with the use of AI. The new technology will be used in vehicles in 2019. The MPC3 combines a unique multi-path approach with AI for object recognition to make environment perception more reliable and improve road safety. The camera intelligence is based on Company expertise and is integrated into the V3H chip from Renesas. It also improves existing driver assistance systems and expands their application range. In addition, the reliability of emergency braking systems increases as the camera can perceive partially hidden pedestrians. (From a press release on August 30, 2019)

48-volt system for motor homes and cameras
-The Company’s Bosch Engineering subsidiary and Knaus Tabbert will present a smart 48-volt system for caravans at the Caravan Salon 2019 in Dusseldorf. The 48-volt system consists of an electrified axle, sensors and lithium-ion batteries from the Company and enables the generation of electrical energy, regardless of the towing vehicle. Due to generator operation, the system’s batteries can be charged while driving or through braking recuperation. The stored energy can be used by passengers inside the caravan or converted into driving power. 48V batteries can also be charged in the caravan, or at home via a power outlet. The caravan is also equipped with an integrated maneuvering function. Through an app, the caravan can be easily and conveniently steered to a desired parking space. (From a press release on August 29, 2019)

3D display products
-The Company’s new 3D display products generate a real three-dimensional effect using passive 3D technology which works without additional systems such as gaze tracking or 3D glasses. The display’s depth of field enables drivers to grasp important visual information faster. The Company coordinates the entire HMI with a cockpit computer and houses the controller in a central processing unit, reducing the number of ECUs. Fewer ECUs mean less weight, and shorten vehicle development time. With OTA updates, the infotainment is as easily updated as a smartphone. The Company’s displays can take various shapes, from small and flat to large and curved. Users can also interact with the displays through multiple methods, by speech or touch while potentially receiving haptic feedback. (From a press release on August 12, 2019)

Technologies shown at IAA 2019
-The Company will present its latest solutions for personalized, automated, connected and electrified mobility at IAA 2019. The Company will present the IoT Shuttle, an electric vehicle which moves through inner cities and is networked with its surroundings. A rolling chassis developed with Benteler will also be exhibited. Powertrain technologies shown will include a fuel-cell system which is developed with the Swedish company Powercell, 48V technologies for entry level hybridization, a thermal management system, and an air pollution measurement system. The Company will showcase automated valet parking, a front camera combining image processing with algorithms and AI, radar sensors, motion and position sensor, connected horizon and electric steering systems. The Company will also exhibit connectivity and communication technologies such as a 3D display, perfectly keyless entry, V2X communication and vehicle computers. (From a press release on July 26, 2019)

Cloud services to support battery management systems
-The Company is developing new cloud services that supplement individual battery management systems in electric vehicles. Smart software functions in the cloud continually analyze the battery status and take appropriate action to prevent or slow cell aging. These measures can reduce the wear on the battery by as much as 20%. The cloud services utilize real-time data gathered from the vehicle to optimize every single recharging process and to provide drivers with personalized driving tips on how to conserve battery power via the dashboard. The services not only offer continuous insight into the battery’s current status, but enable a reliable forecast of a battery’s remaining service life and performance. Didi Chuxing, a globally leading mobility platform based in China, is working with the Company to introduce Battery in the Cloud across DiDi’s electric vehicle fleet. (From a press release on July 9, 2019)

Current and future radar sensors
-The Company’s Japanese subsidiary, Bosch Corporation (Bosch), will introduce a radar sensor intended for level 4 fully autonomous driving in a few years. It will be Bosch’s first commercially launched sensor on the market to support level 4 and higher autonomous driving. The level 4 radar will be positioned as an upgraded model of a radar sensor that will be produced this fall. The level 4 radar will offer increased processing speed and distance detection accuracy to support fully autonomous driving. The radar mass-produced in fall 2019 will be a fifth-generation model which utilizes millimeter waves for forward detection. It has a maximum viewing angle of 120 degrees, 30 degrees wider than the current model. The new radar also has a forward range of approximately 210 meters, 50 meters longer than the current model. The new radar can quickly detect congestion and has improved obstacle detection accuracy. The new radar is intended for level 2 autonomous driving and is expected to start contributing to the Company’s earnings within two years. (From an article in the Nikkan Jidosha Shimbun on June 5, 2019)

PowerCell S3 fuel cell stack
-PowerCell Sweden AB will jointly demonstrate fuel cell technology with the Company at the UITP public transportation summit. They will showcase the fuel cell stack PowerCell S3 which has been successfully tested by both companies. The two companies recently signed a joint development and licensing agreement regarding the PowerCell S3 for the automotive segment. With fuel cells and hydrogen, it is possible to electrify buses and other vehicles, generating water as the only emission. Since buses with fuel cell drivetrains are fully electric, they also emit less noise than traditional buses, which is a great benefit in urban areas. Unlike battery electric buses, buses with fuel cells have approximately the same range and fueling time as buses running on fossil fuels. (From a press release on May 22, 2019)

Distributed ledger technologies at Bosch ConnectedWorld conference
-The Company will present its outlook on the "economy of things" at the Bosch ConnectedWorld conference in Berlin. Distributed ledger technologies, which include blockchain, are decentralized structures on the Internet. Data is not stored in data centers of a few platform providers, but distributed across a large number of different servers. The Company is working with energy supply company EnBW on a prototype to improve the charging process of electric cars based on blockchain technology. The entire charging process - from the selection of the charging station, through the reservation to payment - is significantly simplified and tailor-made for the customer. The Company and Siemens are jointly promoting a second application involving a blockchain-based intelligent parking management system.  The vehicle communicates directly with surrounding parking facilities and negotiates the best conditions. With the system, motorists will no longer have to provide change for payment or keep track of a physical ticket. (From a press release on May 15, 2019)

Next-generation radar and electric oil pump at 2019 Automotive Engineering Exposition
-The Company will show its next-generation radar and electric oil pump for transmission at 2019 Automotive Engineering Exposition in Japan. The next-generation radar has wider vision angle and improved detection performance in the vertical direction compared to current products. The radar is smaller and thinner than current models, providing more installation flexibility. Electric oil pumps for the transmission are powered separately from the engine, which enables it to continuously supply oil, for control, cooling, and lubrication purposes. (From a press release on May 13, 2019)

Technologies shown at Bosch ConnectedWorld conference
-The Company will present connected mobility solutions at ConnectedWorld 2019 in Berlin. The Company has developed a new air pollutant monitoring system which measures particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide as well as temperature, pressure, and humidity in real time. The Company uses this data to compile air quality maps and advise cities on traffic planning and management. The Company has also combined the Vivatar security app with the new Vivatar Telematics plug. Vivatar drive detects car accidents and, in an emergency, automatically calls for help using the Company’s emergency assistant. Escrypt, a Company subsidiary which provides automotive security systems, develops integrated security solutions across the entire automotive value chain. The Company has developed a smart connectivity unit capable of using all transmission technologies based on Wi-Fi or mobile network-based communications. The Company’s Convenience Charging integrated charging and navigation solution offers drivers of electric vehicles precise range forecasts, route planning that factors in any recharging stops needed, and easy charging and payment. (From a press release on May 6, 2019)

Perfectly Keyless vehicle access system
-The Company has conducted a representative survey by the market research institute PULS which says that 76% of Germans have ever been annoyed by their car key. Younger motorists up to the age of 40 and frequent travelers associate negative experiences such as logistical problems with the traditional key. While car keys with radio remote controls and manufacturer logos used to be considered status symbols, only 6% of respondents currently consider it as such. Approximately 40% of respondents have considered replacing the car key with a smartphone app. With Perfectly Keyless, the Company is developing a system that allows motorists to automatically open, start and lock their vehicle without having to hold a key or open their smartphone. Built-in vehicle sensors can detect the owner's smartphone within a certain distance. (From a press release on May 2, 2019)

IoT Shuttle at 2019 Auto Shanghai
-The Company will showcase the IoT Shuttle, a building block for future city traffic, at the 2019 Auto Shanghai show. For shuttle vehicles, the Company supplies components and systems for automation, electrification, personalization and networking. The market share of networked vehicles in China should be greater than 50% by 2020. The Company not only supports its customers with networking solutions and smart services such as OTA software updates and predictive diagnosis. By 2030, 10% of all passenger cars on China's roads are to be fully automated. The Company’s driver assistance business grew by approximately 30% in China in 2018 and is expected to grow in 2019 as well. In 2019, the Company will supply solutions for semi-automated driving in 40 models from Chinese manufacturers. (From a press release on April 16, 2019)

Integrated connected mobility solution
-The Company and Mojio debuted an integrated connected mobility solution for OEMs at the 2019 North American International Auto Show. This new offering integrates the Company’s connectivity control unit with Mojio’s Telco-grade cloud platform, unlocking the ability for OEMs to launch and scale cost-effective connected services. The integrated solution from the Company and Mojio will also provide access to a big data analytics framework and business intelligence services that leverage deep learning methodologies and AI to generate valuable insights for OEMs and their customers. (From a press release on January 15, 2019)
 

-In the fiscal year ended December 31, 2019, the Company’s Mobility Solutions business sector had capital expenditure totaling EUR 3.8 billion, representing no change compared to the previous fiscal year. The business sector focused its investments on systems and products including gasoline direct injection systems, the iBooster brake booster, integrated power brakes, ABS and ESP braking systems and autonomous driving systems. The Mobility Solutions business also invested in the semiconductor plant in Dresden, Germany, expanded capacity for automotive electronics operations in Reutlingen, Germany as well as other locations.
 

Investments in Germany

-The Company manufactures the next generation of semiconductor chips at its Reutlingen plant with semiconductors based on 150- and 200-millimeter technology. The Company is also investing approximately EUR one billion at its wafer fab in Dresden, Germany. It will produce wafers with a diameter of 300 millimeters. In the factory, facilities are currently being installed in the clean room areas. The first employees are due to start work in the spring of 2020. (From a press release on October 8, 2019)
 

Investments outside Germany

<India>
-Bosch India, a Company subsidiary, announced that it has made capital investments totaling INR 5,975 million in the 2018-19 fiscal year towards the development of new products and Phase 2 expansion of facilities in Bidadi and Adugodi, which are still under capital work-in-progress. The manufacturing plants have already deployed connected solutions to improve plant efficiency and deliver better results on cost, quality and delivery. It will continue to build its future factories by introducing technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, while training associates in these technologies. (Bosch Limited 67th Annual General Meeting on August 23, 2019)

-The Company inaugurated the Phase 2 expansion for its smart factory for mobility solutions in Bidadi. The plant features the latest Industry 4.0 solutions and carbon-neutral technology. The Company has invested EUR 31 million in the new facility. The Bidadi plant will accommodate almost 2,500 employees by the end of 2019. It will act as a local hub for the development of powertrain solutions and for the manufacturing of products such as common rail single-cylinder pumps and high-pressure rails. The new facility is also aligned with the “Carbon neutral - 2020” strategy. In its manufacturing operations, the plant uses cobots, automated visual inspection stations, and Device Bridge software. (From multiple sources on July 17, 2019)

<Mexico>
-The Company plant in Queretaro, Mexico, which manufactures steering columns for VW and Audi, will add a production line to the three it currently operates by the end of 2019, according to Jeeva Kumar, plant vice president on March 27. The plant may add two more production lines in 2020. Inaugurated in December 2017 with a USD 80 million investment, the Queretaro plant is the Company’s Automotive Steering division’s first plant in Mexico. With a surface area of over 15,000 square meters, the Queretaro plant houses assembly operations for Dual Pinion Servotronic electrically assisted steering components. Kumar noted that the plant is not affected by trade issues because the facility’s entire output is delivered to assembly plants in Mexico. (From Mexico-Now article on April 1, 2019)

-The Company announced that construction of its new Celaya plant is 20% complete and on schedule to begin operations by the end of 2019. The Company is investing USD 120 million and recruiting 1,200 workers for the plant, which will be focused on the production of ECUs. The 21,000-square-meter facility is currently under construction on an area of 171,000 square meters in nearby Apaseo el Grande. When fully operational, the plant will provide components to OEMs such as Volkswagen, Toyota, Honda and FCA. Pedro Tapia, plant vice president, explained to local media that this will be the Company’s 13th plant in Mexico, but the second of the Automotive Electronics division, after the facility located in Ciudad Juarez. (Mexico-Now article on March 15, 2019)

-The Company revealed to local media that it will conclude the USD 85 million expansion carried out since 2016 at its plant in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. According to the plant's technical vice-president, Ruediger Zeitler, the expansion includes the construction of a new manufacturing building, a logistics center, an office area, a cafeteria, a training center and an engineering center, for a total footprint of 25,000 square meters. The expansion will enable the hiring of 300 new employees for production, which will be added to the 3,272 employees currently in production and administrative areas at the facility. This would make the plant the Company’s third largest site in Mexico after the ones in Ciudad Juarez and Toluca. As the only Company facility that produces fuel system components in Mexico, the San Luis Potosi plant manufactures speed sensors, ignition coils and solenoid valves. (From Mexico-Now article on February 20, 2019)

<China>
-On March 21, 2019, the Company’s first iBooster plant in the Asia Pacific region launched operations in Nanjing. Located in the Economic and Technical Development Zone in Nanjing City, Jiangsu province, the plant is the Company’s third iBooster plant, following ones in Germany and Mexico. The plant is built on a site of 22,400 square meters and has had a total investment of CNY 770 million. Its primary market is Asia, specifically focusing on China, Japan, and ASEAN countries. In its initial development phase, the plant will have an annual production capacity of 1.5 million units. In 2020, the Company will build a second production line. In 2021, the plant will serve as the Company’s most extensive production base for the second generation iBooster. (From some media reports on March 22, 2019)

<Hungary>
-HIPA informed that a technology intensive investment worth more than EUR 30 million will be launched in the Company’s Hatvan vehicle electronics manufacturing unit, resulting in a major increase in the production volume. It is aimed at expanding production capacity and will serve to launch the manufacturing of next-generation products that will have a role in hybrid and electrified vehicles. These products include electric steering control units that will replace the hydraulic assistant steering systems in electrified vehicles. The production capacity will be increased considerably, due to the purchase and commissioning of state-of-the-art manufacturing and testing equipment and conveyor belts for the manufacturing lines. (From HIPA press release on February 28, 2019)

-The Hungarian Investment Promotion Agency informed that the Company will invest EUR 45 million in the Miskolc plant for the installation of assembly lines that will manufacture the next generations of engine cooling fans and eBike electric drives. The investment will also enable the production of new products such as window and seat movement engines and the purchase of associated test equipment. The Company also celebrated the 200 millionth product made at the plant. Robert Bosch Energy and Body Systems Kft., has 2,500 employees which manufacture parts and electric drives for the automotive industry and also work on research and development and other activities with high added value. (From HIPA press release on January 11, 2019)