Rising prominence of multi-function automotive switches

The popularity of automotive switches comes on the heels of soaring demand for convenience and comfort. It is worth mentioning that the emergence of electronic vehicles has augured well for the popularity of automotive switch manufacturers. Plug-in electric vehicles tend to reduce emissions and react quickly, thereby providing very good torque. Moreover, with merely one moving part, rotor, EVs such as battery electric vehicles are very strong.

Several studies have revealed that some of the EV features can enhance safety as they tend to have a lower centre of gravity which makes them less vulnerable to roll over. With plans to put a clampdown on petrol and diesel by 2040, UK’s government target to expedite the plan and shift it to 2035 is highly likely. 

Legal requirements solidify the position of automotive switches

The use of advanced driver assistance system to detect safety-critical situations has led to the development of automated vehicles. The information system installed boosts the driver’s situation awareness and the warning system agilely cautions the driver of a likely danger, including low light intensity, blind spot and obstacle in the way. 

Some of the mandatory requirements under the European law for new vehicles have signified the relevance of the autonomous emergency braking system (AEBS) in sensing the chance of collision ahead and automatically brakes to skirt or reduce the collision. Moreover, the automatic braking system (ABS) on cars tend to monitor the speed of wheels and applies the brakes to individual wheels independently to abstain them from locking.

With the automotive industry grappling with a slew of challenges such as light weighting, reducing emissions and the digitisation towards a connected car, electrification and autonomous vehicles, automotive switch manufacturers are gearing to embrace disruption and innovation. 

Dedicated hardware such as switches have become highly sought-after owing to attributes such as self-failure detection, high reliability, or redundancy. For instance, the expansion of electronic latches with the electrification of handles, along with the interaction between smartphones and key fobs has set an example to solidify the position of automotive switch industry.

Besides, an automotive switch system plays an invaluable role to monitor if a door latch is in a locked or in an open position. Moreover, detect switches offer an accurate current when occupants apply a range of force. Manufacturers are coming up with door solutions with switches for sliding doors, connectors for closure systems with sliding doors and micro switches for door handles. 

Prominence of multi-function switches

The introduction of standard switches for fan switches, ventilators, switches for ventilators, thermostat knob for ventilation and basic switches for the middle chassis has augured well for the manufacturers of light commercial vehicles (LCVs) and heavy commercial vehicles (HCVs). Automatic switches are increasingly being used in passenger cars and other high-end vehicles. 

Proliferation in the demand for efficient and robust inventory management has led to an uptick in the number of vehicle fleet boosting warehousing and transportation. Adoption of electric vehicles in logistics industry has created an aura of optimism among automotive switch manufacturers. 

Technological innovations and introduction of infotainment have become second to none when it comes to the development of multifunction switches. 

For instance, in 2016, Daimler honoured Preh GmbH with an award for the manufacture and development of a new type of multifunction switch. The touch control buttons integrated into the steering wheel switches allows drivers of the Mercedes-Benz E-class to witness functions of the central display and combined instrument without taking hands from the steering wheel. Notably, manufacturers are developing switches for shifting the seat forwards or backwards. 

In July 2018, Toyodenso inked a deal with Immersion to add haptics to automotive solutions. Prominently, haptics fuels heightened realism and potent feedback mechanisms in in-vehicle touch interfaces. Use of haptics in navigation, entertainment and climate control helps to reduce driver distraction. 

Buoyed by sustainable and affordable mobility services, adoption of electric vehicles has soared by leaps and bounds. Automotive switch space is well positioned with the popularity of electronics systems in vehicles. Prominently, use of multifunction switches in luxury vehicles has been touted to boost portfolios of OEMs.