High temperature electronic systems all in silicon carbide (SiC) for electric vehicles

Important results from the project

The main long term objective of the project is to develop compact, efficient and intelligent power modules able to operate at high temperature and containing control electronics, sensors and switch devices for electric motor drive and specifically for control of electrical motors in electrical and hybrid vehicles. SiC based modules allow low losses and increased working temperature. This results in more efficient, compact and lighter power systems for electrical and hybrid vehicles. The aim of the project is to secure industrial financing after year 2010 for the purpose of realizing embedded systems based on the SiC IMCPM (Intelligent Multi-Chip Power Module) concept.

Expected long term effects

Within 3 years we will decide on the concepts, develop and verify functionality of basic electronic building blocks necessary to realize power, control, protection and diagnostic functions in the IMCPM modules able to operate at minimum 250 °C.

Approach and implementation

The project combines competence in power system and control electronics at KTH/Dept. of Electrical Engineering, with competence in semiconductor devices at Dept. of Device Technology and at Acreo and with competence in multichip-module construction and thermal design at Center for Robust Electronics. The project should be finalized in a period of 36 month and be able to deliver the basic data necessary to fabricate prototypes of the DC/DC convertor and the DC/AC inverter IMCPM modules with market relevant specifications for EV and HEV applications.