Ampere, a leading intelligent EV brand born from Renault Group, and STMicroelectronics, a prominent global semiconductor leader, have announced a strategic agreement that will secure Ampere’s long-term supply of Silicon Carbide (SiC) power modules. This collaboration will support the development of Ampere’s next-generation electric powertrain, focusing on enhancing efficiency, performance, and sustainability. The supply of SiC power modules is set to begin in 2026.
Key Highlights:
- Multi-year agreement between STMicroelectronics and Renault Group to supply Ampere with SiC power modules, securing a stable component supply.
- Development of a powerbox for Ampere’s inverter to optimize the efficiency of their new electric motors.
- Focus on achieving enhanced performance, improved battery range, and reduced charging times for Ampere’s e-powertrain.
- Aligned with Ampere’s strategy of working upstream with partners to achieve the best solutions for their EV technologies.
Ampere and STMicroelectronics have collaborated closely on optimizing the power modules, a crucial component of the powerbox that will be used in Ampere’s ultra-efficient electric powertrain. By leveraging Ampere’s expertise in EV technology and STMicroelectronics’ capabilities in advanced power electronics, they aim to deliver increased performance and cost competitiveness for the electric powertrain.
“This agreement is the result of the intensive work carried out with STMicroelectronics. By working upstream together, we were able to optimize and secure the supply of key components for our electric powertrains, to offer high performance EVs with increased range and optimized charging time. It perfectly aligns with Ampere’s strategy to master the entire value chain of power electronics for its e-powertrain, leveraging STMicroelectronics’ expertise in power modules,” said Philippe Brunet, SVP Powertrain & EV engineering, Ampere.
Power Modules Role in Efficiency
Power modules, which contain Silicon Carbide chips, are integral to managing and converting electrical power from the battery to drive the electric motor. Their role is vital to achieving higher efficiency, improved battery range, and better energy regeneration capabilities, which ultimately lead to smoother and more responsive driving experiences. These modules directly contribute to the overall performance and energy management of an electric car.
Advanced Collaboration on Powerbox Development
STMicroelectronics and Ampere have co-developed a powerbox that will be deployed in Ampere’s new generation of electric motors. The powerbox is designed for optimum performance and size efficiency across Ampere’s lineup of electric vehicles, supporting both 400-volt battery systems and 800-volt systems, which are designed for quicker charging—achieving a 10%-80% charge in 15 minutes or less.
According to Michael Anfang, Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Europe, Middle East, and Africa Region at STMicroelectronics, “ST is at the cutting edge of the development of advanced power electronics enabling the mobility industry to improve the performance of electrified platforms. With the optimization of these higher-efficient products and solutions to meet Ampere’s performance requirements, and our vertically integrated silicon carbide supply chain, we are supporting Ampere’s strategy for its next generation of electric powertrain.”
Focus on Quality and Supply Chain Security
As an integrated device manufacturer (IDM), STMicroelectronics guarantees both quality and security of supply, enabling car manufacturers like Ampere to pursue ambitious electrification strategies. This agreement is fully aligned with Ampere’s approach to mastering the entire value chain of electric vehicles and developing partnerships that ensure the best technological outcomes.
Technical Components of the Powerbox
The powerbox incorporates three SiC-based power modules, an excitation module to control the magnetic field within the motor’s rotor, and a cooling baseplate to dissipate heat, ensuring effective thermal management. This integrated design simplifies cooling processes and improves overall system efficiency.
For more information, visit www.ampere.cars and www.st.com.
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