The increasing use of power-hungry options in modern passenger cars, such as heated seats and quick-defrost glass is placing unprecedented demands on automotive charging systems.

In response, the technology and specifications for the components used in starters and alternators (collectively known as rotating electrics) have become more advanced, and the growing complexity of passenger cars and light trucks has resulted in a significant increase in the sheer number of different alternators and starters.

In terms of design, the accent is on lightweight construction with higher outputs and better reliability than ever before; with manufacturers also having to address environmental, noise and high under-bonnet temperature concerns.

So, while the latest starters and alternators provide improved power generation capacity, they are also smaller, lighter and quieter in order to improve fuel consumption, help reduce CO2 and improve cabin comfort.

‘In the light commercial vehicle segment, just-auto estimates that around 3.3m alternators were sold in the EU in 2007, with market volume potential to reach 4m by 2014.'

Recent innovations in both conventional starter motors and alternators and integrated starter-alternators are investigated in the technical review, and profiles of the major manufacturers, from Bosch to Valeo are provided.

Forecasts to 2014 for the (OES and independent) aftermarket for starter motors and alternators in Europe, and for OE starter motors and alternators (by volume and value) in Europe, North America, Japan and China are also included.

Chapter 1: The market - An interview with Marko Wowczyna, manager of Denso UK Aftermarket Sales, discussing the main technical advances and specifications for each product over the past decade is offered in this chapter, along with commentary referring to the trends and main players in the industry.

Movements by selected manufacturers in the emerging markets of China, India and Poland are discussed, and market share for OE alternators and starter motors by passenger car and light truck are provided.

Chapter 2: Technical review - In this chapter we include a Q&A with a Valeo spokesman about their rotating electrics products, and an interview with Martin Sattler, general manager of ZF Sachs' electric drives business, about the main factors affecting technical changes to the integrated starter-alternator, and the main benefits of the DynaStart.

Chapter 3: Manufacturers - Learn more about Bosch, Denso, Lucas Electrical, Mitsubishi Electric, Motorcar Parts of America Inc, Prestolite Electric, Remy International and Valeo with these top level company profiles. Read about their customers, products, facilities, sales, and mergers and acquisitions.