Wolfspeed signs multiyear SiC device agreement for BorgWarner inverters

Wolfspeed has signed a multiyear agreement to supply silicon carbide devices for BorgWarner’s next-generation 800 V inverter platform. BorgWarner will use Wolfspeed’s 1,200 V technology, with the announcement linking the programme to its Gen 5 SiC development.

The companies have not disclosed the contract value, device volumes or detailed delivery schedule. Wolfspeed describes the agreement as an extension of their existing collaboration and a commitment to long-term device supply.

Using a 1,200 V device in an 800 V platform allows voltage headroom, but the available margin depends on the voltage actually imposed across the semiconductor during switching and other transients. It cannot be established from the platform designation alone.

BorgWarner already markets an 800 V SiC inverter using its Viper power-switch technology and cooling from both sides of the module. That existing product information describes BorgWarner’s packaging approach. The new agreement does not provide equivalent detail for every inverter it covers.

Wolfspeed says its manufacturing capabilities have transitioned to 200 mm wafers. A larger wafer format changes manufacturing economics and capacity planning, but the release does not quantify the cost reduction or additional output assigned to BorgWarner.

Matthias Buchner, Wolfspeed’s senior vice-president for global sales and chief marketing officer, described the strategy as combining technology with “deep, long-term customer partnerships”.

Sources

• Wolfspeed: BorgWarner supply agreement
• BorgWarner: existing power-electronics portfolio and 800 V inverter

Image: An electric vehicle charging connection. Illustrative application photograph, not a BorgWarner inverter or evidence of components used in this vehicle. Photo: Kindel Media / Pexels. Image source. Licence.