Plug-in electric cars are slowly becoming more common, but internal-combustion engines will remain a significant presence on the world's roads for decades to come yet.
That means automakers will continue trying to squeeze ever-greater efficiency out of these engines, making them more complex in the process.
This will almost certainly include a degree of electrification that falls short of full hybrid powertrains.
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One option—often discussed by suppliers marketing such systems—is a more aggressive engine start-stop system, teamed with a 48-volt electrical system.
Many new cars are already equipped with start-stop systems, which shut off the engine while the car is stationary.
But a more robust 48-volt electrical system could allow this feature to be used more often, and could help provide supplementary power for accessories, proponents note.
