NXP Semiconductors has introduced its S32K39 series of automotive microcontrollers (MCUs) for EV control applications. The company says these MCUs include networking, security and functional safety capabilities beyond those of traditional automotive MCUs. 

The S32K39 MCUs are designed for the intelligent and high-precision control of traction inverters that convert the EV battery’s DC power to AC. The MCUs support traditional insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBT), as well as newer silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN) technologies. The dual 200 kHz control loops are designed to enable smaller, lighter, more efficient inverters, and to control six-phase motors with increased power density and fault tolerance. An ASIL D software resolver, along with integrated sine wave generation and sigma delta converters, eliminates the need for external components, resulting in reduced overall system cost, according to NXP. 

The company says the S32K39 series can address EV applications beyond traction inverter control, including battery management, on-board charging and DC-DC conversion. Release is planned for Q4 2023.

“The S32K39 MCUs offer a compelling combination of modern technology that provides carmakers tremendous flexibility and scalability to accelerate their EV development and deploy the latest electrification technologies,” says Allan McAuslin, Director, Vehicle Control and Electrification Segment at NXP Semiconductors.

Source: NXP