By Robb M. Stewart
ON Semiconductor, a leading technology company, has joined forces with automotive supplier Magna International to invest in silicon carbide, a crucial component for the growing electric vehicle market. Through this partnership, Magna will integrate ON Semiconductor’s cutting-edge technology to enhance the range and efficiency of electric vehicles.
In a long-term supply agreement, ON Semiconductor will provide Magna with its EliteSiC power solutions, which will be integrated into Magna’s e-drive systems. This integration will result in improved cooling performance, faster acceleration and charging rates, and enhanced energy efficiency, leading to increased range for electric vehicles.
For Magna, this collaboration will streamline its supply chain and enable it to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles more effectively.
Additionally, as part of a separate agreement, Magna plans to invest approximately $40 million in new silicon carbide equipment at ON Semiconductor’s facilities in New Hampshire and the Czech Republic. This strategic investment will ensure that Magna has access to a reliable supply of silicon carbide in the future.
Silicon carbide, a wide bandgap semiconductor substrate, is particularly valuable for high-temperature and high-power applications such as electric vehicles.
