Electric vehicles (EVs) keep automotive engineers busy looking for new approaches to improve them as they are becoming more in demand with consumers. One approach they work hard on is using wide bandgap semiconductors in their design. We’ll look at three top ways these components boost EV performance. As electric vehicles become more and more prevalent in the auto industry, it’s essential to understand the technology behind it, including semiconductor usage.
Faster Charging Capabilities
It’s fast and easy to put fuel in an auto, but EV batteries can take a few hours to recharge. However, semiconductor innovations have a huge impact by making charging speeds much quicker. Manufacturers are introducing a silicon carbide charging model that stunningly results in a 100% reduction in conduction loss. This makes faster and more efficient charging possible.
Level 3 charging stations are getting a boost thanks to gallium nitride (GaN) transistors, particularly MOSFETs. These powerful components handle high voltages and heat efficiently, allowing superfast charging. With GaN, DC fast chargers can deliver enough juice for an EV to travel 20 miles in a mere minute, significantly reducing charging times and improving overall driver experience.
GaN FETs match AC/DC onboard chargers and high to low voltages in electric vehicles’ converters. These integrated gates reduce converter size and doubles per density, allowing fast switching speeds. These power train systems are small and still allow for plenty of passenger space due to their smaller size.
Better Sustainability and Reliability
Sustainability plays a key role in a buyer’s decision when buying an electric vehicle. Performance is a given, but there a a growing number of choices when shopping for these vehicles. In 2021, there were 370 models of EVs available, which was about a 40% increase in options globally in 2019. This is one reason that research continues to improve these automobiles in numerous ways.
Electric vehicles can do more than get you from your place of departure to your destination. Technology has evolved EVs into smart mobility platforms with the help of adaptive and intelligent semiconductors. Manufacturers and adding advanced control algorithms and advanced sensors in their semiconductors.
These features allow real-time monitoring of the environmental conditions and the car’s performance. Modern semiconductors can maximize efficiency and safety by adapting to ongoing driving conditions and the terrain. This can appeal to drivers in areas with constantly changing weather and off-road drivers alike.
Semiconductors Promote the Evolution of EVs
Advancement is necessary for most technologies today, and EV models are no different as they improve through better methods and modern innovations. Wide bandgap semiconductors have already been shown to be essential in these vehicles’ performance and charging abilities. As more studies in this area are done, more perks are likely.
This continued progress will help buyers overcome their hesitations about investing in an electric car. As these adoption rates increase, people can look ahead to a greener environment in the future, as there will be less reliance on resources like fossil fuels.
Published by: Khy Talara