42-volt electrical power system for military vehicles - comparison with commercial automotive systems

A comparative study of needs and issues to implement 42-volt DC power systems in military and the commercial vehicles is presented. The current voltage levels of 14 volts in commercial and generally 28 volts in military vehicles have difficulty in sustaining the growing demands of electrical loads, created largely due to the advent of power electronics. Presently the 42-volt system is finding its headway in the commercial automotive industry. However, there still remain some significant issues, that need to be carefully examined in order to transition 42-volt systems into military vehicles. The difference between the military and commercial applications of 42 volt is also described including any ramifications due to this difference.