The company will be the main provider of a fully optimized power system solution utilizing Onsemi’s most recent EliteSiC M3e platform.
Onsemi has entered into a long-term agreement with Volkswagen Group to be the key provider of a comprehensive power box solution for the upcoming generation of traction inverters in Volkswagen’s Scalable Systems Platform (SSP). This solution incorporates silicon carbide-based technologies in a unified module capable of scaling to suit various power levels, adapting from high- to low-power traction inverters across all vehicle categories.
Hassane El-Khoury, president and CEO of Onsemi, explained that their comprehensive power system solution consolidates the entire power sub-assembly into a singular, modular, and scalable platform. This configuration offers Volkswagen Group an optimized system that improves efficiency and performance across their range of vehicles. Additionally, their innovative strategy allows for customization of power and the inclusion of various features for different vehicle models without compromising performance, all while reducing costs.
The power box solution from Onsemi leverages EliteSiC M3e MOSFETs to manage increased power in a more compact form, significantly minimizing energy losses. It includes three integrated half-bridge modules atop a cooling channel, which boosts system efficiency by ensuring effective heat transfer from the semiconductor components to the coolant casing. This enhancement leads to superior performance, better heat management, and heightened efficiency, extending the driving range of electric vehicles (EVs) on a single charge. With this integrated solution, Volkswagen Group is poised for a smooth transition to future EliteSiC-based platforms, maintaining a leading position in EV technology.
Dirk Große-Loheide, a member of Volkswagen’s Extended Executive Committee Group Procurement and Board Member for “Procurement” at Volkswagen Brand, expressed satisfaction with the partnership, highlighting onsemi’s comprehensive vertically integrated supply chain—from raw material cultivation to power box assembly—as a critical factor in their choice.
Till von Bothmer, Senior Vice President of VW Group Procurement for powertrain, further emphasized the robustness of Onsemi’s supply strategy, which includes regional silicon carbide manufacturing facilities across Asia, Europe, and the U.S. and a commitment to continually updating to the latest SiC technology to ensure competitive advantage.
Additionally, Volkswagen Group stands to gain from Onsemi’s forthcoming investment in expanding its silicon carbide production capacity in the Czech Republic. This expansion aims to establish a complete end-to-end production facility for traction inverter power systems in Europe, enhancing the Volkswagen Group’s supply chain robustness, optimizing logistics, and facilitating quicker integration into their manufacturing processes.
