Melexis, a Belgian semiconductor supplier, has announced a partnership with Chinese car manufacturer NIO to provide current sensor chips for its traction inverter system. This collaboration marks another instance of a European supplier teaming up with a Chinese automaker.
The current sensor chips, crucial for converting a battery’s direct current into the alternating current used by an electric motor, will be utilized in all of NIO’s battery electric vehicles. Melexis highlighted its commitment to supporting NIO’s success in the electric vehicle market through the provision of these essential components.
“Our current sensor (integrated circuit) ICs, coupled with the expertise of our dedicated local engineers, will provide NIO with the support they need to achieve success in the electric vehicle market,” said Dieter Verstreken, Vice-President of Melexis’s China Strategy.
This partnership reflects a broader trend among semiconductor suppliers, who, facing challenges due to slower global car sales, are increasingly turning to Chinese automakers. Many Chinese manufacturers are actively seeking to expand their presence in Europe, driving demand for high-quality components from suppliers like Melexis.
In a similar move, STMicroelectronics recently announced a long-term Silicon Carbide supply agreement with China’s Geely.
