Delphi Technologies has begun volume production of an 800 V silicon carbide (SiC) inverter. The component uses silicon carbide-based metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) technology.

Delphi’s announcement follows a recent partnership with SiC semiconductors manufacturer Cree, which will combine Cree’s MOSFETs with Delphi’s traction drive inverters and DC/DC converters and chargers.

Delphi’s new inverters are supported by the company’s Viper power switch, which replaces conventional silicon with SiC and allows its inverters to be 40 percent lighter and 30 percent more compact than those of competitors, according to the company. Launch is scheduled for 2022.

“Doubling the voltage from today’s typical 400 volts brings a substantial range of benefits, both for the vehicle user and for the vehicle manufacturer,” said Delphi CEO Richard F. Dauch. “We have designed this technology to simplify vehicle manufacturers’ multi-voltage strategies as they extend their electric and hybrid vehicle ranges.”

Source: Delphi