A pivotal development within the electric vehicle (EV) realm unfolded as onsemi, a frontrunner in intelligent power and sensing technologies, reinforced its partnership with Li Auto, a leading Chinese new energy vehicle manufacturer. This strategic move signifies a critical step towards electrifying automobiles and elevating driving safety standards.
Li Auto previously incorporated onsemi’s sophisticated 8-megapixel image sensors in its extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) models. The strengthened partnership escalates this collaboration, positioning Li Auto to utilize onsemi’s EliteSiC 1,200V bare chip in upcoming 800V high-voltage electric models. This decision reflects Li Auto’s dedication to enhancing its vehicle technology, focusing on safety and efficiency.
Integrating onsemi’s EliteSiC 1,200V product into Li Auto’s vehicles promises several benefits. This SiC (silicon carbide) technology is recognized for superior efficiency and lighter weight, leading to extended vehicle range and accelerated charging times. The 8-megapixel image sensor enriches the vehicles’ intelligent perception abilities, essential for safer Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and the progression toward Level 3/Level 4 autonomous driving systems.
onsemi, a key figure in the SiC domain, boasts 15 years of mass production experience in SiC modules. As one of the select manufacturers with a comprehensive SiC supply chain, its role is integral to ensuring product reliability and quality.
Li Auto’s vision transcends the current alliance. By 2025, the company targets a diverse product portfolio, developing EREVs and high-voltage pure electric vehicles simultaneously. The dependable SiC supply from onsemi will play a vital role as Li Auto transitions to the 800V high-voltage platform.
The shift towards 800V platforms in electric vehicles is becoming prominent, with several notable models such as the XPeng G9, Luxeed S7, Geely Galaxy E8, ZEEKR 007, ARCFOX α T5, and Xiaomi SU7 already adopting these systems.
Li Auto is not limiting its collaborations to onsemi alone. Partnerships with STMicroelectronics and SANAN Optoelectronics for a SiC production facility joint venture underscore this strategy. This venture’s projected annual production capacity of 2.4 million SiC half-bridge power modules marks a substantial uplift for the industry.
The reinforced partnership between onsemi and Li Auto is a testament to a visionary approach to automotive electrification and safety. It not only highlights the increasing relevance of SiC technology in the EV sector but also showcases the collaborative efforts needed to spearhead innovation and progress in this rapidly evolving field.
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