Webasto charges into autonomous driving, e-mobility

German auto supplier Webasto, known for its roof and heating systems, is speeding up its transformation into the era of mobility and autonomous driving.

Webasto China President Jan Henning Mehlfeldt said the company is pursuing a dual strategy of strengthening its core business and exploring new mobility fields.

"Our company has not only successfully expanded the roof system business in China, but also intensified its research and development activities and successfully started the production of the electro mobility portfolio," he said.

"These achievements will further help us to provide Chinese customers with more comprehensive, locally produced product solutions to satisfy and exceed their needs."

At this year's Shanghai auto show, Webasto is presenting for the first time its roof sensor module and a smart lightweight front-end module for autonomous vehicles.

The module integrates the sensors such as lidars and cameras that are required for autonomous driving into the roof.

This solution can make autonomous vehicles to look basically the same as ordinary cars.

To ensure sensors' functions in all automotive conditions, Webasto offers smart thermo management and cleaning systems.

Webasto has developed a new generation of battery packs for hybrid vehicles in cooperation with Chinese automotive manufacturers.

The company is also showcasing a wallbox charger, which is especially developed for electric cars in the Chinese market.

Sales of electric cars and plug-in hybrids are estimated to reach 1.8 million this year, according to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers.