News: Microelectronics
6 October 2021
Wolfspeed to develop and supply silicon carbide power devices for GM’s future EV programs
Wolfspeed Inc of Durham, NC, USA has announced a strategic supplier agreement to develop and provide silicon carbide power device solutions for Detroit-based General Motors’ future electric vehicle programs. Wolfspeed’s silicon carbide devices will enable GM to install more efficient EV propulsion systems that will extend the range of its rapidly expanding EV portfolio.
The silicon carbide will specifically be used in the integrated power electronics contained within GM’s Ultium Drive units in its next-generation EVs.
As part of the agreement, GM will participate in the Wolfspeed Assurance of Supply Program (WS AoSP), which is intended to secure domestic, sustainable and scalable materials for EV production.
“Our agreement with Wolfspeed represents another step forward in our transition to an all-electric future,” says Shilpan Amin, GM vice president, Global Purchasing and Supply Chain. “Customers of EVs are looking for greater range, and we see silicon carbide as an essential material in the design of our power electronics to meet customer demand,” he adds.
“Our agreement with GM further demonstrates the automotive industry’s commitment to delivering innovative EV solutions to the market and using the latest advances in power management to improve overall vehicle performance,” says Wolfspeed’s CEO Gregg Lowe. “This agreement ensures long-term supply of silicon carbide to GM.”
The silicon carbide power devices will be produced at Wolfspeed’s 200mm-capable Mohawk Valley Fab in Marcy, New York. Launching in early 2022, what will be the world’s largest silicon carbide fabrication facility will dramatically expand capacity for the company’s SiC technologies, which are in increasing demand for EV production and other advanced technology sectors around the world.
The widespread adoption of silicon carbide as an industry-standard semiconductor for transportation supports the automotive industry’s rapid transition to clean energy vehicles, notes Wolfspeed. Silicon carbide enables greater system efficiencies that result in longer EV range while lowering weight and conserving space. Wolfspeed adds that its technology is fueling electric propulsion systems across the entire voltage spectrum – from 400V to 800V – and beyond.
Cree becomes Wolfspeed, trading on NYSE under new ticker ‘WOLF’
