ROHM and UAES Collaborate on SiC Power Devices

ROHM and United Automotive Electronic Systems (UAES) have been working closely together, engaging in detailed technical exchanges focused on automotive applications utilizing silicon carbide (SiC) power devices. This collaboration reached a new milestone in 2020 with the establishment of the SiC Joint Research Institute at the UAES headquarters in Shanghai, China. The following year, in 2021, UAES made the strategic decision to select ROHM as its preferred supplier for advanced SiC power devices and peripheral components.

The strong and enduring technical partnership between ROHM and UAES has resulted in the development and integration of a wide range of automotive products featuring ROHM's SiC technology. These products include onboard chargers and inverters for electric vehicles, where SiC power devices play a critical role in enhancing efficiency and performance. By leveraging SiC technology, automotive systems can achieve extended cruising ranges and reduced battery sizes, contributing to the overall advancement of electric vehicle technology.

Under the long-term supply agreement, UAES will have reliable access to ROHM's SiC power devices to meet the increasing demand for SiC-based inverter modules. These modules have already been supplied to customers starting from November 2023. Moving forward, both companies are committed to further strengthening their collaboration, driving technological innovation in the automotive sector by accelerating the development of cutting-edge SiC power technology tailored for electric vehicles.

Guo Xiaolu, Deputy General Manager of UAES, emphasized the significance of power semiconductors like SiC in the context of the growing electric vehicle market in China. He highlighted ROHM's expertise as a leading semiconductor manufacturer and pioneer in SiC power devices. The decision to select ROHM as the long-term supplier of SiC chips ensures a stable supply chain for future mass production, reflecting the strategic vision of UAES in meeting market demands.

Commenting on the partnership, Tsuguki Noma, Corporate Officer and Director of the Power Device Business Unit at ROHM, expressed confidence in the collaboration with UAES. Recognizing UAES as a prominent Tier 1 manufacturer in China, Noma emphasized the importance of SiC power devices in enhancing efficiency within the rapidly expanding electric vehicle market. With ROHM's established development and manufacturing capabilities in the SiC industry, the partnership aims to deliver cutting-edge, high-performance automotive applications that meet the evolving needs of the industry.