Cree’s silicon carbide-based MOSFET (metal–oxide–semiconductor field-effect transistor) technology coupled with Delphi's traction drive inverters, DC/DC converters and chargers will look to extend driving range and deliver faster charging times of EVs, while also lowering weight, conserving space and reducing cost.
Cree's silicon carbide MOSFETs will initially be used in Delphi's 800V inverters for a premium global automaker. Production will begin in 2022.
Commenting Richard F. Dauch, CEO of Delphi Technologies said: “Our collaboration with Cree will create a significant benefit to automakers as they work to balance meeting stricter global emissions regulations with consumer appetite for electric vehicles. Overcoming driver anxiety related to electric vehicle range, charging times and cost will be a boon for the industry.”
The adoption of silicon carbide-based power solutions is growing across the automotive market as the industry seeks to accelerate its move from internal combustion engines to EVs. IHS estimates that, by 2030, 30 million high voltage electrified light vehicles will be sold representing 27% of all vehicles sold annually. Inverters are one of the highest-value electrification components and their efficiency has an industry-changing impact on many aspects of vehicle performance.
“Cree’s technology is at the heart of the dramatic change underway in EVs, and we are committed to supporting the automotive industry as it transitions from silicon-based designs to more efficient, higher performing silicon carbide solutions,” said Gregg Lowe, CEO of Cree. “This partnership will help drive the adoption of silicon carbide in the automotive sector. As the world leader in silicon carbide, Cree is continuing to expand capacity to meet market demands with our industry-leading power MOSFETs to help achieve a new, more efficient future.”
Cree recently announced silicon carbide capacity expansion to generate up to a 30-fold increase in capacity and it offers a comprehensive set of silicon carbide and GaN (Gallium nitride)power and RF (radio frequency) solutions through its Wolfspeed business unit.
Delphi Technologies’ new silicon carbide inverter operating at 800V will provide vehicle engineers with additional flexibility to optimize other powertrain systems. Options include more range or a smaller battery; ultra-fast charging or smaller, lighter, cheaper cables; and greater harvesting of vehicle kinetic energy when braking, further extending vehicle range.