US semiconductor manufacturer Onsemi has recently signed a long-term agreement with BMW for the supply of its EliteSiC silicon carbide power module to be used in the German car manufacturer’s future electric vehicles. The announcement did not disclose the exact number of units, the financial implications of the contract, the start of delivery, or the duration of the supply agreement. Nonetheless, Onsemi revealed that the EliteSiC 750 V M3 module will be utilized in the electric vehicles’ drive trains, operating at 400 volts.
It is noteworthy that this technology is not intended for BMW’s New Class, which operates on an 800-volt platform. However, the company did not identify the specific models that will incorporate the EliteSiC technology. The announcement touted the advantages of using silicon carbide semiconductors over pure silicon in the electric powertrain, citing the superior efficiency and lower overall losses. In addition, the agreement with BMW allowed Onsemi to offer the carmaker “differentiated and application-specific solutions,” such as optimized size and arrangement, high performance, and reliability.
See also: Onsemi Partners with Volkswagen to Supply Components for Next-Generation Electric Platform
Asif Jakwani, senior vice president and general manager of Onsemi’s Advanced Power Division, highlighted the importance of Onsemi’s system approach for optimized performance across all BMW’s electric vehicles in maximizing range, which is crucial for EV customers. Jakwani also emphasized that Onsemi’s vertically integrated SiC supply chain could support the growing demand for BMW’s premium EVs by ramping up production.
Onsemi had previously established a strategic partnership with Volkswagen, with the deal involving the supply of EliteSiC 1200 V power modules. Kia also uses Onsemi’s SiC semiconductors in the EV6 GT.
