Advancing Electric Mobility with Innovative Powertrain Solutions
Among EVs, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) remain a vital bridge technology, combining the advantages of electric driving range with the flexibility of conventional fuel engines. Achieving high efficiency and reliability in PHEV powertrains is essential for mainstream adoption. This is where semiconductor innovations, such as silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFETs, play a transformative role. Leading the charge in this technology evolution, onsemi and Schaeffler have expanded their collaboration with a new traction inverter powered by onsemi’s next-generation EliteSiC technology. This breakthrough significantly enhances PHEV performance, enabling longer driving ranges, greater reliability, and more adaptable vehicle designs.
Expanded Collaboration Powers Next-Generation Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles
onsemi and Schaeffler, two pioneers in automotive technology, have strengthened their multi-year partnership by integrating onsemi’s cutting-edge EliteSiC silicon carbide MOSFETs into Schaeffler’s traction inverter system. This inverter is designed for a major global automaker’s advanced PHEV platform. Leveraging SiC-based semiconductor technology instead of traditional insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs), the inverter achieves superior energy efficiency and thermal performance, which are crucial for the demanding powertrain requirements of electrified vehicles. This collaboration exemplifies how strategic partnerships can accelerate innovation in electric vehicle components, delivering tangible benefits for both manufacturers and drivers.
Enhanced Energy Conversion and Driving Range
The EliteSiC MOSFETs offer remarkably low conduction losses and outstanding short-circuit robustness. This enables traction inverters to convert battery power into electric drive torque more efficiently, which directly extends the vehicle’s driving range—a top priority for plug-in hybrid owners. The higher energy conversion efficiency reduces wasted energy as heat, allowing PHEVs to travel longer distances on electric power alone.
Improved Reliability and Reduced Maintenance
By integrating the EliteSiC technology, Schaeffler’s inverter delivers consistent, reliable performance under diverse operating conditions. Enhanced robustness means fewer system failures and maintenance interventions, critical in reducing total cost of ownership. Both consumers and fleet operators benefit from dependable EV powertrains with extended lifespans.
Compact and Flexible Form Factor
Silicon carbide’s superior thermal conductivity allows for smaller, lighter inverter designs. This optimized form factor gives automotive engineers greater flexibility to integrate advanced electrified powertrain components without compromising vehicle packaging or design aesthetics. Such compactness is especially valuable in cost-sensitive EV platforms. Where space and weight savings contribute to overall vehicle efficiency and performance.
The Role of Silicon Carbide in Advanced Electric Powertrain Systems
Silicon carbide semiconductors represent a paradigm shift in electric vehicle electronics. Compared to conventional silicon-based transistors, SiC devices operate at higher voltages, temperatures, and switching speeds with lower energy losses. This positions SiC technology as a key enabler for next-generation electric powertrain systems, including battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and PHEVs. Onsemi’s EliteSiC MOSFETs are at the forefront of this technology evolution. It offers unmatched power density, energy efficiency, and thermal management. As automakers push toward stricter emissions regulations and higher vehicle performance demands, silicon carbide solutions are becoming indispensable in meeting these goals.
Strengthening the Future of Electric Mobility Through Strategic Partnership
The expanded collaboration between onsemi and Schaeffler highlights the importance of combining semiconductor innovation with advanced motion technology expertise. Their joint efforts accelerate the development of electrified drivetrain components that set new performance standards for the automotive industry. This milestone is not only a testament to the technical merits of EliteSiC but also to the shared vision of delivering sustainable, efficient, and reliable electric mobility systems globally. As electric vehicles continue their rapid market growth, partnerships like this will be critical drivers in shaping the future ecosystem of clean transportation.
