Expanded collaboration with new SiC-based PHEV platform

onsemi announced an expanded collaboration with Schaeffler through a new design win that uses onsemi’s next-generation EliteSiC product line of SiC MOSFETs. The onsemi solution will power the Schaeffler traction inverter for a leading global automaker’s cutting-edge PHEV platform.

The EliteSiC technology offers extremely lower conduction losses and superior short-circuit robustness, allowing a compact, thermally efficient inverter design that improves overall system performance. This SiC-based solution provides the lowest on-state resistance to provide highest peak power compared to other SiC solutions in its class. These benefits allow Schaeffler to deliver an innovative traction inverter system that attains measurable benefits to the end customer, including:

• Longer driving range, enabled by higher energy conversion efficiency
• Enhanced reliability, for consistent operation with lower maintenance
• Optimised form factor, allowing greater flexibility in vehicle design

“The traction inverter is at the heart of every electrified drivetrain, and onsemi’s EliteSiC solution plays a vital role in achieving the efficiency and performance targets that our customer demands,” said Christopher Breitsameter, head of Business Division Controls at Schaeffler.

As automakers increasingly prioritise energy efficiency and performance, the industry is turning to more advanced hybrid architectures even in cost-sensitive EV platforms, a market traditionally dominated by IGBTs. onsemi’s role as an industry leader in SiC positions it at the forefront of this transition, allowing Schaeffler to deliver an EV system that fulfils stringent performance and packaging requirements.

“As the exclusive silicon carbide supplier for this program, onsemi continues to strengthen its position as a trusted innovation partner for leading global automotive players,” said Simon Keeton, group president, Power Solutions Group, onsemi. “Our industry-leading silicon carbide semiconductor technology delivers unmatched efficiency, thermal performance, and power density – key enablers for next-generation electric powertrain systems not only for battery electric vehicles, but also for plug-in Hybrid platforms.”