Renault and ST collaborate on SiC supply
Renault Group and STMicroelectronics have announced a multi-year agreement on the supply of SiC power modules, as part of a collaboration with Renault's EV specialist firm Ampere on a powerbox for the inverter for the electric powertrain.
Ampere and STMicroelectronics worked together on the optimisation of the power module, to get the optimum performance-size ratio across Ampere’s line-up, on 400V battery EV vehicles and for Segment C-EVs with 800V batteries, enabling greater autonomy and faster charging. (800Vs one of the key levers to achieve the 10 percent to 80 percent quick charge in 15 minutes or less).
The powerbox combines three SiC-based power modules, an excitation module, which provides the necessary electrical excitation to the motor or generator for controlling the magnetic field within the rotor, and a cooling baseplate designed to dissipate heat from the back side of the power module, simplifying the thermal management and cooling process.
“This agreement is the result of the intensive work carried out with STMicroelectronics. By working upstream together, we were able to optimise and secure the supply of key components for our electric powertrains, to offer high performance EVs with increased range and optimised charging time. It perfectly aligns with Ampere’s strategy to master the entire value chain of power electronics for its e-powertrain, leveraging STMicroelectronics’ expertise in power modules,” said Philippe Brunet, SVP powertrain and EV engineering, Ampere.
Michael Anfang, executive VP sales and marketing, EMEA Region, STMicroelectronics said. “ST and Ampere share a common vision for more sustainable mobility and this agreement marks another step forward in improved power performance to further contribute to concrete improvements to carbon emissions reduction by the mobility industry and its supply chain.”
This agreement is part of Ampere’s strategy to master the entire value chain of the electric vehicle, particularly by working further upstream with its partners and ensuring the best efficiency at each step.
