Automotive Traction Inverters: A transformation Shaping the Future of Electric Vehicles

Traction inverters have the primary function of transforming direct current (DC) power originating from a high voltage (HV) battery into alternating current (AC) power, which is essential for propelling the main motor in an electric vehicle.

Furthermore, traction inverters carry out additional tasks such as boosting voltage, protecting switches, and enabling regenerative braking. The implementation of galvanic isolation is crucial for all these functions, as it ensures the separation of control systems from high voltage sections, enhancing safety and performance.

A report published by Allied Market Research on the global automotive traction inverters market indicates that the industry would cite the fastest CAGR of 16.4% throughout the forecast timeframe. The market is expanding rapidly due to an adoption of high-voltage batteries and SiC (Silicon Carbide) MOSFETs, significant increase in the demand for hydrogen electric vehicles (EVs), and heightened demand for improved motor performance and increased operational efficiency in battery electric vehicles.

The automotive traction inverter plays a pivotal role in the propulsion system of electric and hybrid vehicles, delivering effective power conversion and control to enable the movement of the vehicle's wheels with high efficiency.

Magna plans to incorporate onsemi SiC (Silicon Carbide) devices into their traction inverter solutions for electric vehicles (EVs)

Magna and onsemi have entered an LTSA (long-term supply agreement) on 7 July 2023, where Magna will integrate onsemi's EliteSiC intelligent power solutions into its eDrive systems. Through the integration of onsemi's EliteSiC MOSFET technology, Magna's eDrive systems can deliver improved cooling performance, faster acceleration, and charging rates. This enhancement translates to increased efficiency and an extended range for electric vehicles (EVs). Furthermore, onsemi's end-to-end silicon carbide (SiC) manufacturing capabilities, along with its rapid production scaling abilities, contribute to Magna's vertical integration and streamlining of its supply chain. This strategic partnership positions Magna to effectively address the rising demand for its SiC-based products in the EV market.

According to senior vice president and general manager, Asif Jakwani, Advanced Power Division, onsemi, their most recent EliteSiC MOSFET technology enables higher power density and improved efficiency in traction inverters. This results to enhanced gas-equivalent miles per gallon without compromising driving dynamics and safety

onsemi's Silicon Carbide Power Module for traction inverters shortlisted for use in Hyundai Motor Group's high-performance electric vehicles

A leader in intelligent power and sensing technologies, onsemi, announced that its EliteSiC family of  SiC (Silicon carbide) power modules shortlisted for the EV6 GT model of Kia Corporation. The EliteSiC power module plays a pivotal role in the high-performance electric vehicle's traction inverter, effectively converting power from the DC 800 V battery to drive the AC system for the rear axle. onsemi's continuous collaboration with Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation (HMC/KIA) involves implementing the EliteSiC technology in upcoming advanced EVs based on Electric Global Module Platform (E-GMP) of HMC/KIA.

 onsemi's high-power density SiC power module utilizes advanced packaging technology to reduce thermal resistance and parasitic elements. It also incorporates innovative interconnections for high package reliability. This technological advancement results in reduced power losses during the conversion from DC to AC and contributes to a reduction in the weight and size of the traction inverter.

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