Onsemi expects its EliteSiC M3e MOSFETs to ‘accelerate the pace of innovation for power semiconductors.’ They are seen as playing a fundamental role in enabling the performance and reliability of next-generation electrical systems at lower cost per kW, the company said. (Photo: Business Wire)
Onsemi will provide a full stack of silicon carbide technologies to Volkswagen Group as part of an integrated module that can scale across all power platforms.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.—Onsemi (stylized as onsemi) reported that it signed a multi-year agreement with Volkswagen Group recently to be the primary supplier of a complete power box that will be part of Volkswagen’s next-generation traction inverter for its Scalable Systems Platform (SSP).
The power box features silicon carbide-based technologies in an integrated module that can scale across all power levels—from high power to low power traction inverters—to be compatible for all vehicle categories, onsemi said in a release.
“By offering a complete power system solution that encompasses the entire power sub-assembly, we provide Volkswagen Group with a single, simplified modular and scalable platform that maximizes efficiency and performance for their vehicle lineup,” said Hassane El-Khoury, president and CEO of onsemi, in the release. “This new approach allows for the customization of power needs and the addition of features for different vehicles without compromising on performance, all while reducing cost.”
Onsemi’s unique power box is based on the company’s latest generation silicon carbide technology platform, EliteSiC M3e MOSFETs. The power box can handle more power in a smaller package, significantly reducing energy losses. According to onsemi, the inclusion of three integrated half-bridge modules that are mounted on a cooling channel will further improve system efficiency by ensuring heat is effectively managed from the semiconductor to the coolant encasement. This is said to lead to better performance, improved heat control, and increased efficiency, allowing electric vehicles (EVs) to drive further on a single charge.
“By using this integrated solution, Volkswagen Group will be able to easily transition to future EliteSiC-based platforms and remain at the forefront of EV innovation,” the release stated.
Onsemi’s M3e is said to enable system architects to reach ‘unprecedented new targets of performance.’ (Photo: Business Wire)
“We are very pleased to have onsemi as a strategic supplier for the power box of the traction inverter for our first tranche in the SSP platform,” said Dirk Große-Loheide, member of Volkswagen’s extended executive committee group for procurement, in the release. “Onsemi has convinced us with a deeply verticalized supply chain from the growth of the raw material up to the assembly of the power box.”
“On top of the verticalization, onsemi has provided a resilient supply concept with regional silicon carbide fabs across Asia, Europe, and the U.S.,” added Till von Bothmer, VW Group’s senior vice president of powertrain procurement, in the release. “In addition, onsemi will continuously provide the latest SiC generation to ensure competitiveness.”
Volkswagen Group will also benefit from onsemi’s planned investment to expand its silicon carbide manufacturing in the Czech Republic. The investment would establish an end-to-end production facility in Europe for the traction inverter power system. The proximity of onsemi’s facility would fortify Volkswagen Group’s supply chain while improving logistics and allowing for faster integration into the manufacturing process, according to the release.