New ultra-low loss diode for light vehicle generators reduces CO2 emissions

Infineon Technologies and Robert Bosch GmbH are releasing a new ultra-low-loss diode called Active Rectifying Diode for light vehicle generators. It facilitates an increase in generator efficiency of up to 8% compared to traditional power conversion methods and aids generators to qualify as eco-innovations as defined by the European Union. Using the new diode can decrease the CO2 emissions of a car by up to 1.8g/km. As it can substitute standard devices one-to-one, the device can easily be applied even to generators and cars currently in series production.

“Infineon is known for its great efforts to support e-mobility. At the same time, we are aware that it remains crucial for carmakers to reduce CO 2 emissions also in conventional cars,” said Finn Felsberg, vice president and general manager, Power Integration and Supply at Infineon’s Automotive Division. “Given the still very large number of combustion engine cars, our new diode represents a quick and cost-efficient step for OEMs towards reaching strict fleet emission targets.” For Bosch Oceania Vice President Automotive Electronics, Mark Jackman said, “This innovative product perfectly fits in Bosch’s range of robust and high-quality automotive components 'Invented for Life’.”

In a conventional car, the generator provides the electric energy for charging the battery and providing a growing number of safety and comfort features such as driver assistance systems, air conditioning and infotainment. The new diode enables generators to deliver a power conversion efficiency beyond 80%. Today, they regularly reach levels of up to 72%.

The diode is based on a new chip technology from Infineon that combines MOSFETs, capacitors and control logic on a single die, therefore, circumventing the complex mounting of separate chips. The chip is then assembled by Bosch into the body of the diode in a pressfit package. The new diode is unique for several reasons, including its extremely low diode forward voltage of 0,1V at 100A I RMS and lowest leakage current. Also, it offers a simple assembly process, mechanical robustness as well as high reliability and electromagnetic compatibility.