The vehicle’s starting and charging system is crucial for the operation of both the engine and the electronic systems. The battery must supply enough voltage and current to activate the starter motor, allowing the internal combustion engine to start. Once the engine is running, the alternator ensures that the battery is recharged. At the same time, the alternator provides voltage and current to all electronic consumers in the car. The alternator is capable of supplying enough energy to charge the battery while all the consumers in the car are turned on. In vehicles with an electrified powertrain (hybrid and fully EV), we no longer see an alternator and starter motor: the HV electric motor then serves as both a drive motor and a generator.
