
Vitesco, Infineon join forces for SiC power semiconductors
Silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors play a key role in increasing the efficiency of high-voltage power electronics in the drive systems of electrified vehicles. Vitesco uses SiC components, for example, in compact high-voltage inverters that control electric drive motors and use battery voltages of up to 800 volts. With their high efficiency, they make a significant contribution to increasing the range of electric vehicles. Vitesco already uses SiC components in the current generation of electronics, where they enable small sizes with high efficiency.
“Partnerships with leading semiconductor manufacturers are important for us to manage dynamic growth,” says Andreas Wolf, CEO of Vitesco Technologies. “We have a long history of cooperation with Infineon in silicon. Now we are deepening this with SiC power semiconductors. The joint further development of the chips, especially for our applications in the field of electromobility, will result in highly attractive solutions. This is another important step into the future of electrification.”
Stephan Zizala, head of the Automotive High Power business unit at Infineon Technologies, points out that the second silicon carbide generation enables a further increase in efficiency with even more compact systems.
For Vitesco Technologies, this is the second partnership in SiC devices; the first one (which still exists) is with Rohm. “We have had excellent experience with the partnership already underway and have industrialised the first applications,” said Stierle. In view of the strong order intake for electric drives, for example for very compact axle drives, the broad supply base is a strategically important course setting and ensures long-term success.
Vitesco anticipates a rising share of high-voltage systems among its product portfolio. By 2025, the company expects 800V systems to account for 15% of all BEVs. A slightly lower share is expected for China. 800V technology will initially be introduced in larger vehicles, as the reduction in power consumption and thus charging time is more significant than in lower vehicle classes. Among all BEVs, the share of 800V powertrains is currently about 18% and continues to rise, a Vitesco spokesperson said.
https://www.vitesco-technologies.com/en-us
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