International automotive supplier Forvia Hella has joined forces with Tau Motors in a strategic development cooperation aimed at revolutionising electric vehicle (EV) charging technology.

Their joint project is focused on creating a virtually isolated onboard charger (viOBC) that is expected to enter series production within the next two to three years.

The viOBC is said to eliminate the need for a transformer, resulting in a product with “high power” density and energy efficiency.

This technology enables energy management in vehicles, including the capacity for vehicle-to-grid integration through bidirectional charging.

The viOBC has a power density of up to 7kW per litre of installation volume and can reduce the space and volume required for a vehicle’s OBC by up to 50%, with a weight reduction of around 33%.

Additionally, the transformerless design of the viOBC allows for an energy efficiency exceeding 98% during charging, which could lead to CO₂ savings through weight reduction and lower electricity costs due to its higher efficiency.

A prototype of the viOBC has already completed technological and commercial concept testing, with expectations for series production to commence in the next two to three years.

The collaboration combines Forvia Hella's high-voltage and power electronics, as well as its industrialisation capabilities with Tau’s software-defined technology platform and knowledge in power electronics and product design.

This partnership is further cemented by an investment in Tau through Hella Ventures.

Forvia Hella Electronics managing director Jörg Weisgerber said: "We are very pleased with the partnership with Tau and the joint development of this outstanding Onboard Charger with an exceptionally high degree of innovation. The collaboration takes onboard charging to the next level and creates a product that sets new standards in power density.

With this, we are also expanding our portfolio of high-performance key components for electrification.”

Forvia Hella, part of the Forvia Group, became a listed entity following the acquisition of a controlling stake in Hella by Faurecia in January 2022, leading to the introduction of the combined Group's new name, Forvia.