I know it was talked about before the C6 came out. It seems just a couple years ago it looked like it would be the next step in the automotive industry. Anyone know when or even if there is any push in the industry for the system?

I know there are huge advantages over the current 12-volt systems.

 

There's also some significant hurdles to overcome. Last I heard, 42 VDC was put on the back burner due to problems with arcing, faster corrosion of electrical components, and shortened lightbulb life. There's also the added cost, since the car would be a hybrid 14 VDC and 42 VDC system.

It would make more sense to me to go to 28 VDC. The components are well proven in big rigs and construction equipment, and you can still cut the amperages in half.

AFAIK the only production cars to use 42 VDC were a couple of luxury Toyotas in the Japanese market.

 

Direct fuel injection and electronic valve technology are the driving force behind the 42 volt system as far as I know. Neither seems ready to go to market.

 

Direct fuel injection has been here for a couple of years and even longer in Europe and Japan. GM has it in the 2.0 turbo and upcoming HF V6.