BorgWarner, a prominent US automotive supplier, and Onsemi, a leading semiconductor manufacturer, have announced the expansion of their long-standing collaboration in silicon carbide (SiC) technology. The agreement, now valued at over $1 billion in lifetime value, aims to integrate Onsemi’s EliteSiC 1200 V and 750 V power devices into BorgWarner’s power modules for traction inverters. These inverters play a critical role in controlling electric drive motors and form a crucial component of power electronics.
The collaboration between BorgWarner and Onsemi stems from the mutual recognition of the remarkable benefits SiC technology brings to the electric vehicle (EV) industry. BorgWarner’s power modules, enhanced by Onsemi’s EliteSiC technology, have demonstrated improved EV performance by utilizing more efficient cooling methods. As a result, the inverters can be smaller and generate lower heat loss, leading to faster charging speeds, extended driving range, and reduced energy consumption.
One of the significant advantages of the partnership lies in the increased power density and higher efficiency that BorgWarner expects to achieve by employing the new SiC devices. The company’s Viper modules, incorporating Onsemi’s EliteSiC technology, comprise both 400V and 800V inverters. The Viper line, launched in February, is set to begin production for the new inverter program in 2025, with a peak annual volume reaching close to 400,000 units.
Stefan Demmerle, Vice President of BorgWarner and President of PowerDrive Systems, expressed confidence in Onsemi’s continuous and strategic investment in SiC manufacturing capacity throughout its supply chain. This investment further bolsters BorgWarner’s ability to meet the growing demand for its cutting-edge solutions, both now and in the future.
Simon Keeton, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Power Solutions Group at Onsemi, highlighted the company’s commitment to providing chip-to-system level support and its proven track record of execution. This support allows Onsemi to deliver industry-leading SiC-based solutions to BorgWarner at an accelerated pace, precisely meeting the automotive supplier’s go-to-market requirements.
Onsemi’s notable clientele includes prestigious names in the automotive industry, such as Volkswagen, BMW, Hyundai-Kia, and Zeekr, as well as supplier Vitesco. The extension of the collaboration with BorgWarner further solidifies Onsemi’s position as a key player in enabling the widespread adoption of SiC technology in the EV sector.
As the automotive industry continues its rapid shift towards electrification, the collaboration between BorgWarner and Onsemi promises to play a pivotal role in advancing EV technology, enhancing performance, and contributing to a more sustainable future.
