News release overview
Hitachi and Hitachi Astemo Developed Thin-type Inverter Technology for EVs That is More Compact and Energy Efficient
New structure with simplified wiring improves production efficiency and reduces CO2 emissions
Appearance of conventional and proposed inverters
Tokyo, May 24, 2022 – Hitachi, Ltd (TSE: 6501, "Hitachi") and Hitachi Astemo, Ltd. ("Hitachi Astemo") have developed basic technology for a thin-type inverter that achieves both energy conservation and miniaturization as a power converter (hereinafter referred to as "inverter") for electric vehicles (hereinafter referred to as "EVs"). This technology simplifies power wiring by integrating power semiconductors*1 that control power supply with printed circuit boards. Compared to conventional products, the thin-type inverter reduces energy loss when power semiconductors are switched by 30% and is approximately 50%*2 smaller. The new design eliminates the need for welding of power semiconductors and power wiring, and the number of components and assembly processes required are also reduced. As a result, throughout the lifecycle of the inverter, including the production process, CO2 emissions are reduced.
Hitachi and Hitachi Astemo will accelerate efforts to commercialize the thin-type inverter technology, and Hitachi will contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral society by applying this technology to a wide range of applications, including not only EVs but also EV fast-charging systems and power transmission systems.
*1 Semiconductors that can pass or stop a larger amount of power than ordinary semiconductors. Si (silicon) has been mainly used as a material, but the practical application of SiC (silicon carbide), which is high-performance and energy-saving, has been progressing. The structure of the newly developed product is based on Si power semiconductors, but it can also be applied to SiC.
*2 Compared to Hitachi's conventional product (100kW class).
