A number of international auto makers have set themselves the target of getting an automobile with a dual 12V/42V PowerNet into mass production by the year 2005. Reports on practical experience of current projects at leading international auto makers and suppliers allow the reader to get a picture of the status of introduction of the 42V PowerNet and of the problems associated with translating development work into mass production, providing them with an idea of the opportunities for structuring their own company or organizing company activities.The book gives an overview of the problems of introducing the 42V PowerNet into automotive engineering. The basic question here ist not »Why 42V?« but rather »How can a 42V system be introduced into mass production alongside an existing 12V system?«.It provides information from the standpoint of the engineer and the businessman on: The problems of introduction as seen by the auto maker - Proposed solutions to detailed problems such as short circuits and sparking - System reviews, such as Intelligent Power Management - Suggestions for individual components, such as individual semiconductors - Suggested solutions involving new materials - Solution variants and verification by simulation.