STMicroelectronics was selected to supply high-efficiency silicon carbide (SiC) power devices for the on-board charger (OBC) for the upcoming Renault Nissan Mitsubishi Alliance electric vehicle. The Auto Alliance plans to use the new silicon carbide power technology to create a more efficient and compact high-power OBC, further increasing the attractiveness of electric vehicles by reducing battery charging time and increasing driving range.

As a SiC technology partner selected by Renault Nissan Mitsubishi Alliance, ST will provide design support to help maximize OBC performance and reliability. ST will also provide relevant components for the alliance, including standard silicon devices.

OBC with ST silicon carbide is scheduled to be put into mass production in 2021. When there is no dedicated household charging system or super charger, the electric vehicle needs OBC to handle the charging of the standard roadside charging point. The charging time is determined by the OBC rated power, while the existing electric vehicle has a unit rating of 3-9 kW. The alliance has created a 22kW OBC for the Renault Zoe model, which can fully charge the battery in about an hour. In addition, by upgrading the OBC to take advantage of the superior efficiency and small size of ST's SiC power semiconductors (MOSFETs and rectifier diodes), the size, weight and cost of the OBC can be further reduced while improving energy efficiency, making the shape of future cars more attractive. force.

"As a pioneer and global leader in zero-emission electric vehicles, our goal remains to be the number one supplier of the global mass market and affordable electric vehicles," said Philippe Schulz, vice president of the alliance. “We use ST's SiC technology in OBC to achieve small size, light weight and high energy efficiency, coupled with improved battery efficiency, which will enable us to accelerate electric vehicles by reducing charging time and expanding the use of electric vehicles."