The electric vehicle market is growing exponentially. Global sales of electric cars grew by 40% in 2020 and nearly doubled by 2021. In addition, all major automakers have committed to phase out their gasoline and diesel vehicles by 2030 or earlier to contribute to environmental protection.
Against this backdrop, innovations are emerging that are further driving electromobility on a global scale. One of the companies leading these technologies is Hitachi Energy, which announced the launch of a semiconductor module called “RoadPak”.
Through a press release, the company detailed that this power system is a pioneer for electric vehicles at PCIM Europe, the electronics trade fair held in Nuremberg, Germany.
RoadPak sets a new benchmark in electrified car performance. This compact module uses state-of-the-art silicon carbide (SiC) technology to achieve exceptional levels of energy density for faster charging, reliability over the life of the vehicle, and the lowest possible energy losses for the driving range.
Hitachi claims that the semiconductors are designed to operate flawlessly for more than four million start-stop cycles over the life of the vehicle.
It is worth noting that semiconductors are a critical component in electric vehicles, as they are the heart of the inverter by converting DC power from the vehicle’s battery into AC power that drives the motor.
Also in Formula E
RoadPak technology has been proven by many electric vehicle manufacturers and accumulates two seasons of flawless performance with the Mahindra Racing Formula E team.
The module is available in 750 and 1200 volt ranges. This makes it ideal for all types of electric vehicles: regular and luxury cars, commercial vehicles, buses, agricultural electric vehicles, heavy trucks and high-performance racing cars.
Mahindra CEO and Director, Dilbagh Gill expressed his delight at having the advanced power module in the M7Electro and M8Electro cars.
“This has proven to significantly increase performance and reliability. This high-tech enhancement allows us to develop state-of-the-art eco-friendly automotive solutions and improve the driving experience,” he said.
For Hitachi Energy’s network integration business general manager Niklas Persson, RoadPak is the result of more than 100 years of innovation and leadership in the company’s power electronics market.
“Together with our Grid-eMotion™ Flash and Fleet EV charging systems, it builds on our commitment to take electric mobility to the next level and promote a more sustainable energy future for all,” he concluded.
