Fourth generation SiC MOSFET adopted in three EV models

ROHM has announced the adoption of power modules equipped with fourth-generation SiC MOSFET bare chips for the traction inverters in three models of the ZEEKR EV brand from Zhejiang Geely Holding Group. Since 2023, these power modules have been mass-produced and shipped from HAIMOSIC (SHANGHAI) Co., Ltd. - a joint venture between ROHM and Zhenghai Group Co., Ltd.- to Viridi E-Mobility Technology (Ningbo) Co., Ltd, a Tier 1 manufacturer under Geely.

Geely and ROHM have been collaborating since 2018, beginning with technical exchanges and later forming a strategic partnership focused on SiC power devices in 2021. This partnership led to integrating ROHM's SiC MOSFETs into the traction inverters of the ZEEKR X, 009, and 001 models. These EVs' power solutions centred on SiC MOSFETs play a key role in extending the cruising range and enhancing overall performance.

The company is committed to advancing SiC technology. It plans to launch fifth-generation SiC MOSFETs in 2025 while accelerating the market introduction of 6th and 7th-generation devices. Providing SiC in various forms, including bare chips, discrete components, and modules, can promote the widespread adoption of SiC technology, contributing to the creation of a sustainable society.

The ZEEKR X, which features a maximum output exceeding 300kW and a cruising range of more than 400km despite being a compact SUV, is attracting attention even outside China due to its exceptional cost performance. The 009 minivan features an intelligent cockpit and a large 140kWh battery, achieving an outstanding maximum cruising range of 822km. For those looking for superior performance, the flagship model, 001, offers a maximum output of over 400kW from dual motors with a range of over 580km and a four-wheel independent control system.

In recent years, there has been a push to develop more compact, efficient, lightweight electric systems to expand the adoption of next-generation EVs (xEVs) and attain environmental goals such as carbon neutrality. For EVs, in particular, improving the efficiency of the traction inverter, a key element of the drive system, is crucial for extending the cruising range and reducing the size of the onboard battery, heightening expectations for SiC power devices.

EcoSiC is a brand of devices that use SiC, which is attracting attention in the power device field for performance that surpasses Si. The company independently develops technologies crucial for the evolution of SiC, from wafer fabrication and production processes to packaging and quality control methods.