High-performance MCUs for modern electrification applications

NXP Semiconductors provides a new S32K39 series of automotive MCUs optimised for EV control applications. The modern MCUs take electrification into the future with high-speed and high-resolution control for better power efficiency to extend driving range and offer a smoother EV driving experience. The MCUs incorporate networking, security and functional safety capabilities beyond conventional automotive MCUs to satisfy the demands of zonal vehicle E/E architectures and software-defined vehicles. The new MCUs allow the company's BMS and EV power inverters to supply end-to-end solutions for next-generation EVs.

The high-performance MCUs are optimised for the intelligent and high-precision control of traction inverters that convert the EV battery’s DC power into alternating current to drive modern traction motors. The MCUs support conventional IGBT, newer SiC and GaN technologies. With dual 200kHz control loops to enhance power efficiency, these can provide smaller, lighter, more efficient inverters, enabling motors to deliver a longer driving range. They can also control six-phase motors with better power density and fault tolerance for enhanced long-term reliability. A safe ASIL D software resolver, together with integrated sine wave generation and sigma delta converters, eradicate external components for lower overall system cost. The device also offers flexibility to control up to quad traction inverters when linked with the NXP S32E real-time processor and can implement advanced traction capabilities for four-wheel drive EVs in this configuration.

Because of its versatile architecture, the series is ideal for a wide range of EV applications beyond traction inverter control, including BMS, OBC and DC-DC conversion. With support for hardware isolation, time-sensitive networking and advanced cryptography, it is perfectly placed to support software-defined vehicles and zonal architectures.

“The S32K39 MCUs offer a compelling combination of modern technology that provide carmakers tremendous flexibility and scalability to accelerate their EV development and deploy the latest electrification technologies,” said Allan Mcauslin, director, Vehicle Control and Electrification Segment at NXP Semiconductors. “NXP is leading the way with a comprehensive portfolio of complementary solutions to give our customers the ability to provide better EV driving experiences and help accelerate the electric vehicle revolution.”