DCDC converters in electric and hybrid vehicles has a critical role, particularly in connecting high-voltage batteries to low-voltage auxiliary circuits, such as lighting and motors. With the rising demand for energy-efficient vehicles, the importance of these converters is growing. The global market for automotive DCDC converters is projected to increase significantly, from USD 4 billion in 2023 to USD 11 billion by 2030. A key factor in this growth is the use of gallium nitride (GaN) technology, which enhances power density and efficiency in these systems. Vitesco Technologies, a leader in electrification solutions, has incorporated GaN technology into its Gen5+ GaN Air DCDC converter, utilizing Infineon’s CoolGaN™ Transistors to achieve higher system performance, lower costs, and simplified designs. These advancements have resulted in DCDC converters that set new benchmarks in efficiency and sustainability, with GaN enabling higher switching speeds, reduced thermal losses, and air-cooling capabilities that eliminate the need for more complex liquid cooling systems.
Furthermore, the use of GaN transistors in Vitesco’s converters has led to significant improvements in power density and flexibility in vehicle integration. The Gen5+ GaN Air DCDC converters can reach power levels of up to 3.6 kW and achieve efficiencies exceeding 96 percent. The advanced design also allows for flexible operation, such as combining or isolating phases depending on load conditions and enabling the use of 800 V architectures without exceeding the devices’ voltage limits. Overall, the integration of GaN technology not only enhances the performance and cost-effectiveness of DCDC converters but also contributes to the broader goals of vehicle electrification and energy efficiency.
