STMicroelectronics Secures Long-Term Silicon Carbide Supply Deal with Li Auto
STMicroelectronics, a prominent player in the semiconductor industry, has entered into a multiyear agreement to supply silicon carbide (SiC) to Li Auto, a key player in China's burgeoning new energy vehicle sector known for its intelligent, high-end electric vehicles. STMicroelectronics will provide Li Auto with advanced SiC MOSFETs, aiding Li Auto's push into the high-voltage battery electric vehicle (BEV) marketspace.
The switch to electrified, low-emission BEVs represents a significant shift in the automotive domain, and these high-voltage vehicles are poised to deliver superior efficiency and longer driving ranges. Li Auto, traditionally associated with range-extended electric vehicles (EREVs), is venturing into the BEV category with the debut of its state-of-the-art, high-tech BEV MPV in the fourth quarter of 2023. To support its upcoming launches of additional high-voltage BEV models, Li Auto will rely on a steady supply of ST’s SiC MOSFETs to optimize the performance of its BEV powertrains.
ST’s cutting-edge SiC devices bolster the performance and efficiency of electric vehicles by allowing for higher switching frequencies, increased breakdown voltages, and enhanced thermal resistance – all crucial benefits for the higher voltage operations that BEVs demand. Li Auto is integrating ST’s third-generation 1200 V SiC MOSFET into its 800 V BEV platform's traction inverter, aiming for peak industry performance in terms of process stability, energy efficiency, and reliability.
Qingpeng MENG, the Vice President of Supply Chain at Li Auto, highlighted the partnership, stating, "Li Auto is dedicated to exceeding customer expectations with superior EVs. This partnership with ST is a clear indicator of our commitment to BEV development and our expectations for a future ripe with innovation and success."
With over 50% of the global market share in SiC MOSFETs, ST's technology is acclaimed by leading original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) for its impact on electric-vehicle functionality, finding extensive use in on-board chargers and power modules.
Henry CAO, Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing for the China Region at STMicroelectronics, noted the significance of the supply agreement, "ST's world-leading expertise in power devices and wide bandgap semiconductor technologies has facilitated long-term agreements with major automakers and tier-1 suppliers. The new deal with Li Auto underscores our existing robust partnership and furthers our commitment to aiding Li Auto’s ascension as a premier electric vehicle brand in China, while delivering to their customer base the enhanced vehicle performance and range our innovative SiC technologies offer."
