Electric Vehicle Power Electronics
Inverter, a core component that converts DC battery power into the AC current necessary to drive electric motors. Innovations in inverter technology directly impact vehicle range, charging speed, and overall performance. Companies like Schaeffler are leading this charge by developing scalable, modular inverter solutions that meet the evolving demands of the electrification market. Their recent launch of volume production for a high voltage inverter brick in China exemplifies cutting-edge progress in EV power electronics and integration.
Schaeffler’s High Voltage Inverter Brick: Features and Impacts
Schaeffler’s inverter brick is a compact, high-performance power module essential for controlling electric motors through precise current pulses. Produced in large volumes in Tianjin for a top Chinese car manufacturer, the inverter brick supports battery voltages exceeding the standard 800 volts. Besides it delivers root mean square (RMS) currents up to 650 amps. This robust performance underlines the brick’s capacity to efficiently power new-generation electric vehicles. The inverter’s modular design incorporates advanced silicon carbide (SiC) semiconductors from ROHM. It boosts efficiency and thermal management while enabling easy integration across various inverter architectures. This scalability and flexibility make Schaeffler’s inverter brick a pivotal component in modern EV drivetrain systems.
Strategic Partnerships and Technological Innovation
The partnership between Schaeffler and ROHM has been instrumental in advancing inverter technology. ROHM’s 4th generation SiC components integrated into the inverter brick optimize performance, equally increasing charging speeds and energy efficiency. Notably, the inverter brick supports a DC boost function allowing vehicles with 800V systems to charge at 400V stations rapidly. Thus enhancing user convenience and infrastructure compatibility. This collaboration exemplifies how alliances in the EV supply chain can drive innovation and sustainability, aligning with industry trends toward energy-efficient power electronics. Additionally, Schaeffler’s continuous evolution of inverter sub-modules and integration strategies positions it at the forefront of electrification.
Future Prospects and Industry Showcases
Schaeffler’s commitment to electrification extends beyond this milestone, with ongoing development focused on even higher integration levels for future vehicle architectures. The inverter brick is part of the company’s Power Motion product family, highlighting its strategic focus on scalable, high-density power modules tailored for electric mobility. This innovative technology will be featured at the IAA Mobility 2025 event in Munich. It is positioning Schaeffler as a key player in the rapidly evolving EV market. Their broad product range encompasses software, electrification components, drivetrains, chassis, and body systems, reflecting a holistic approach to automotive electrification and smart mobility solutions.
Schaeffler’s launch of volume production for the high voltage inverter brick marks a significant advance in electric vehicle performance, scalability, and energy efficiency, supported by strategic semiconductor partnerships and ongoing innovation. This development illustrates how modular inverter technology is crucial for the future of sustainable, high-performance electric mobility.
