Hofer Powertrain has chosen the most future-proof chip technology, developing new multi-level power electronics using D3GaN (Direct Drive D-mode), a gallium nitride chip technology from VisIC Technologies, for a modern drivetrain needs and break down efficiency barriers. The efficiency and power density of the new solution exceed the capabilities of silicon-based technology and have been successfully tested in the latest tests. The new 3-level GaN (Gallium Nitrite) inverter proves its powerful capabilities on the test bench, significantly increasing switching speed, reducing package size and weight, and reducing overall system cost has been confirmed.
Gallium nitride semiconductors are the key to improving efficiency and extending the range of electrified vehicles. Hofer Powertrain and his VisIC Technologies Ltd. aim to develop gallium nitride-based power inverters for electric vehicles, achieving breakthroughs in gallium nitride technology for his 800V battery systems in the automotive industry. . For more information, see the IDTechEx report on Advanced Electric Vehicles 2020-2040.
“We are proud to have achieved the next step in the development of efficient GaN-based high frequency inverters for 800V automotive applications.” Lukasz Roslaniec, electronics expert at Hofer Powertrain, said:
Based on the mantra “develop fast, learn fast”, hofer powertrains achieve fast results. The team will develop a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) to explore and prove the ability to use 650 V gallium nitride semiconductors in 800 V 3L NPC inverter applications. : Behavior regarding switching speed, EMC and limits. The main goal is to prove the ability to deliver a 100 Arms sinusoidal current through an inductive load and perform a double pulse test. Measurements showed the potential for excellent performance gains.
“Hofer’s powertrain development paves the way for breakthroughs in GaN inverter performance with higher efficiency and superior performance over silicon and silicon carbide-based designs.” Ilia Bunin, senior product manager and technical expert at VisIC Technologies, said:
This system provides valuable insight and deeper understanding of short-circuit protection, switching characteristics of implemented GaN transistors, effects on dv/dt, oscillations during switching, voltage overshoot, and more. Additionally, the company identifies the most important electrical and thermal properties to expedite further development.
A deep understanding was gained from a successful customer project that served as a benchmark, comparing the individual advantages not only at the sub-assembly level but also at the system level compared to existing 2L inverters.
The next sample phase has already started and is expected to perform well in a series of tests in real-world conditions using permanently synchronous motors. The team aims to validate and benchmark existing systems using test cycles such as the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) to prove their superior potential for the entire vehicle powertrain.
Source and top image: Hofer powertrain
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