Infineon joins forces with Schweizer to develop new technology for chip embedded power MOSFETs

     Infineon Technologies AG and Schweizer Electronics AG have successfully developed a new technology for mild hybrid vehicles: chip embedded power MOSFETs. It will significantly improve the performance of 48 V systems while reducing their complexity. Continental's Powertrain business group will be the first to adopt this technology.

     Dr. Rolf Merte, CEO of Schweizer Electronics, said: "Embedded power MOSFETs will open a new chapter in electrical systems for mild hybrid vehicles. The fact that one of the world's leading automotive suppliers has chosen our technology is proof of its potential."

     With the chip embedded process, the power MOSFETs will no longer be soldered to the board, but integrated into the board. Dr. Frank Findeis, head of Infineon's Automotive MOSFET business, said: "The resulting thermal performance benefits help increase power density, while board integration helps improve system reliability. These, in turn, can help improve the power or cost efficiency of a 48-V system."

     As the first company to adopt this technology, Continental's Powertrain business group decided to apply the new technology to the 48-V start-stop motor in a car made by a major European automaker. "With the on-chip process, we can increase electrical power by up to 60 percent compared to conventional systems," says Dietmar Vogt, project leader of systems technology at Continental's Powertrain business group.

     The 48-V start-stop generator is a major contributor to the mild hybrid's ability to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 15% compared to conventional drivetrains. They allow the engine to stop working more often and for longer periods of time than 12 V start-stop systems. In addition, they improve the acceleration performance of the car, thus reducing the load on the internal combustion engine. They are able to recover more kinetic energy during braking than 12 V systems.