The electronic control unit also offers vehicle manufacturers and drivers additional advantages. For instance, low-wear brushless motors can be used in the pump to further extend their service life. In addition, contact-free sensors for measuring fuel levels in the tank, self-diagnosis by the pump and an economical solution for detecting leaks can be incorporated into the electronics.

To date, electronic control units have been separate modules located outside the fuel tank. The innovative feature of the next generation of supply units is that their electronics are integrated in the flange of the supply unit which is itself fitted as a self-contained module inside the fuel tank.

The economic and technical benefits include integrating the unit reduces both assembly time and the space required in the vehicle; the time and cost of system integration is also significantly reduced because the design of the pump and the electronics supplied by Continental are already matched to each other, thus shortening total development time; the short electrical connection between fuel pump and electronics within a single component inside the fuel tank safety area results in considerably better electromagnetic compatibility; since there is no need for a cable with two plug connections, the system is more reliable, further reducing overall costs.

These benefits are some of the reasons for Continental's Powertrain Division to earn its first major series production contract to supply this module for diesel and gasoline engines.

Markus Distelhoff, head of Continental Powertrain's fuel supply business unit, said: “This contract underlines Continental's market leadership in fuel delivery system technology. The new pump generation will be controlled by an electronic control unit, housed inside the flange of the supply module.

“Because the pump will only supply the engine with as much fuel - whether gasoline or diesel - as its operating status requires at any given moment, much of the electrical energy usually needed can be saved.”

Will the new technology benefit the firm?

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