Sensata Technologies has unveiled a new combined pressure and temperature sensor designed for electric vehicle thermal management systems using propane (R290) refrigerant. This development supports automakers exploring low-global-warming-potential (GWP) alternatives to traditional refrigerants, aligning with environmental goals to avoid PFAS chemicals.
ROHM Semiconductor has launched its fourth-generation 650V insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs), designed to boost the performance and efficiency of key components in electric vehicles. These automotive-grade power switching devices are specifically tailored for EV electric compressors and high-voltage heaters, addressing critical thermal management and climate control needs.
A specialized polyurethane potting compound, WEVOPUR 60210 FL T, has been developed to safeguard multilayer printed circuit boards within electric vehicle battery management systems. This innovative material is designed to protect components monitoring high voltages, crucial for the reliable operation of EV batteries and their diagnostic, communication, and safety functions.
Texas Instruments has introduced the TMCS2100-Q1, an innovative coreless Hall-effect current sensor engineered specifically for hybrid and electric vehicle traction inverters. This new sensor significantly enhances accuracy by measuring magnetic fields in both horizontal and vertical directions, rather than the traditional single axis. This dual-axis approach promises improved efficiency and reliability for EV powertrain systems.
Automotive supplier BorgWarner has landed a significant contract to provide its advanced Integrated Drive Modules (iDM) to an undisclosed global electric vehicle manufacturer. These compact, three-in-one units combine the electric motor, gearbox, and inverter, streamlining EV powertrain design and manufacturing. Production is slated to begin in 2027, marking a key win for BorgWarner in the rapidly evolving EV component market.
A new webinar from Parker Lord will delve into the critical aspects of thermal management for power electronics. The session aims to highlight the design considerations that influence cost and manufacturing complexity, drawing key comparisons between systems used in electric vehicles and stationary battery energy storage.
Magna has secured a contract to supply Chinese automaker Chery with advanced 800-volt, two-speed electric drive systems. These compact 250 kW eDrives will be manufactured at Magna's new Wuhu plant in China, enabling local production and delivery to the fast-growing Chinese EV market. This partnership highlights the increasing demand for high-performance EV components from international suppliers within China.
TDK has unveiled its new EP21 series of flat-wire double chokes, designed specifically for common-mode filtering applications in DC-DC converters. These surface-mount devices can handle up to 35 amps, making them suitable for the demanding low-voltage electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) protection circuits found in electric vehicles.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently acknowledged Micron for providing a significant volume of memory chips, critical components for the advanced computing systems in Tesla vehicles. This highlights the importance of reliable supplier relationships in the complex EV manufacturing ecosystem.
AMADA WELD TECH has upgraded its SIGMA LS laser micromachining subsystem, which is used in EV battery production. The new version features a motorized beam delivery head and flexible mounting options, making it more adaptable for integration into automated manufacturing lines. The motorized focusing capability allows for precise, automated adjustments during the high-precision laser processes critical for EV battery components.
Munich Electrification, a German developer of battery management systems for electric vehicles, has secured significant new capital through a majority acquisition by private investment firm Ardian. This investment will enable the company to broaden its product offerings and expand into new markets, accelerating the development of advanced EV battery technology.
Bosch has begun sample production at its new semiconductor plant in Roseville, California, marking a significant step towards bolstering its U.S. manufacturing footprint. This facility will produce silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductors, critical components for electric vehicle inverters that directly impact range and charging efficiency.
As EV production ramps up, manufacturers face significant challenges in identifying critical defects within complex components like batteries, castings, and welds. Traditional inspection techniques often fall short, either missing internal flaws, requiring destructive analysis, or slowing down the production line. Industrial CT (Computed Tomography) scanning offers a non-destructive solution to detect these hidden issues efficiently.
The EV industry is witnessing rapid innovation in battery technology, focusing on increasing energy density, lifespan, and charging speeds while reducing costs. Simultaneously, global manufacturing capacity is expanding to meet rising demand, indicating a pivotal period for electric vehicle adoption.