According to preliminary figures, Robert Bosch GmbH (www.bosch.com) achieved a 6.7% increase in sales last year (to 78 billion euros), despite its figures being damaged by exchange-rate effects to the tune of some 1.2 billion euros.

Speaking at a press briefing in Ludwigsburg, the chairman — Volkmar Denner — said: “We exceeded our growth forecasts and further improved our profitability in 2017; our sales were higher than ever.”

All business sectors played a role in the company’s success, but the preliminary figures show that its Mobility Solutions sales rose by 7.8% — three-times faster than global automotive production — to 47.4 billion euros.

This success was driven primarily by strong demand for diesel injection systems (especially from the commercial-vehicle sector) and for petrol injection systems, as well as for driver assistance and infotainment systems.

Mr Denner said : “We want to achieve urban mobility that is emissions-free, stress-free and accident-free. To that end, we will automate, electrify and connect road traffic.”

With regard to electrification, Bosch started production of a newly developed 48V battery for hybrid vehicles. Meanwhile, its new electric axle drive — or e-axle — will increase the range offered by electric cars.

“Bosch is picking up the pace in electro-mobility. We won numerous orders in 2017, some worth billions of euros. Furthermore, Bosch is working with Nikola Motor Co — a US start-up — to develop a hydrogen-powered e-axle for heavy trucks.

"By 2030 at the latest, fuel cells will play a key role in the powertrain mix. We are stepping up our development activities and gradually expanding our product portfolio.”