A MOSFET (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor) is a type of transistor used primarily for switching and amplifying electronic signals in various electronic devices. It operates by controlling the flow of electrical current using an electric field. MOSFETs are essential components in modern electronics, particularly in power management applications, where they efficiently regulate voltage and current. They are widely used in power supplies, motor controllers, and amplifiers, making them a critical part of the circuitry in automotive systems, including the emerging 48V architecture.
As the automotive industry rapidly evolves towards electrification, the traditional 12V low-voltage electronic systems are struggling to meet the increasing power demands of modern vehicles. Initially, the 12V system was sufficient to power essential electrical components in gasoline vehicles. However, with the advent of hybrid systems, energy recovery technologies, and start-stop functions, the 12V system is no longer adequate. This shift has paved the way for the adoption of 48V systems, which are becoming the new standard in automotive electrical architectures.
In recent years, there has been a surge in demand for artificial intelligence (AI) and high computing power, prompting data centers to transition from 12V to 48V power architectures. This trend is mirrored in the automotive sector, where electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly mainstream, leading to a significant rise in power requirements for onboard systems.
The integration of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) necessitates higher-performance chips and an increased number of sensors. These systems collect and process vast amounts of data to enable features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance. Moreover, the cabin entertainment systems are evolving, with high-resolution displays, multiple screens, and sophisticated audio systems all contributing to the overall power consumption.
In addition to the cabin systems, the introduction of innovative features on the vehicle chassis also drives up power requirements. Electronic active suspension systems, steer-by-wire technologies, and advanced braking systems require significant electrical power to operate effectively. The integration of LED lighting and more complex headlight designs adds to the overall electrical load, further straining the existing 12V systems.
In practical applications, 48V systems may coexist with 12V systems. For example, a vehicle might use a 48V battery for its hybrid systems while maintaining 12V for cabin systems. Currently, Tesla's Cybertruck is the only mass-produced vehicle featuring a complete 48V architecture. Meanwhile, NIO's ET9 adopts a clever solution, utilizing dual 12V power supplies alongside DC-DC converters to meet high power demands for advanced suspension systems while retaining compatibility with 12V components.
As the 48V system gains traction, the demand for mid- and low-voltage MOSFETs is experiencing a notable increase. The maximum voltage of a fully charged 48V battery can reach 60V, making traditional low-voltage MOSFETs designed for 12V applications unsuitable. This has led many manufacturers to develop mid-voltage MOSFETs rated at 80V and higher to meet the needs of 48V systems.
For instance, Infineon has introduced the OptiMOS™ 7 80V MOSFET, which features an exceptionally low on-resistance of less than 1.3 mΩ. This MOSFET offers reduced conduction losses and enhanced power density, making it well-suited for automotive applications such as DC-DC converters and 48V motor control systems. Additionally, ON Semiconductor's T10 PowerTrench series provides 80V mid-voltage MOSFETs specifically designed for automotive 48V systems, focusing on improved efficiency and performance.
The new generation of mid-voltage MOSFETs brings several advantages that make them ideal for 48V applications. One key benefit is their ability to handle higher power loads with greater efficiency. Lower on-resistance translates to reduced heat generation, which is critical in automotive environments where space and thermal management are often constraints. Furthermore, these MOSFETs are designed to operate effectively in high-frequency switching applications, providing enhanced control and performance for electric motors and power management systems.
Manufacturers are also focusing on integrating advanced packaging technologies to further enhance the performance of their MOSFETs. For instance, small form-factor packages enable better thermal management and reduce parasitic inductance, which is essential for high-speed applications. The latest packaging innovations help reduce overall system costs and improve reliability, making them an attractive choice for automotive designers.
In addition to silicon-based MOSFETs, Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology is emerging as a viable option for 48V systems. GaN devices offer several advantages over traditional silicon solutions, including higher efficiency and smaller size. For example, InnoSwitch has launched a 2.4kW buck/boost solution that utilizes GaN technology, achieving a 1.8% improvement in full-load efficiency compared to conventional silicon designs. This translates to lower energy losses and improved overall performance in automotive applications.
The inherent properties of GaN enable devices to operate at higher voltages and temperatures, which is particularly advantageous for automotive applications that require robust performance under demanding conditions. Additionally, GaN devices can switch faster than their silicon counterparts, leading to reduced switching losses and improved system efficiency. As the automotive industry continues to embrace electrification, GaN technology is likely to play an increasingly significant role in the development of next-generation power electronics.
Several power GaN manufacturers are already developing 100V GaN FET products tailored for automotive 48V systems, including EPC, Texas Instruments, Infineon, and GaN Systems. This diversification in available technologies allows automotive engineers to choose the most suitable solutions for their specific applications.
Further Reading:
How to Choose MOSFET Transistor Correctly - Technical News - Veswin Electronics
Differences between BJT vs Mosfet vs IGBT - Technical News - Veswin Electronics
IPW65R045C7 Mosfet Datasheet - Infineon - Technical News - Veswin Electronics
From the perspective of industry development, the automotive low-voltage system is expected to remain in a state of coexistence between 12V and 48V for the foreseeable future. However, as automotive manufacturers' demands continue to rise and supply chains mature, a full transition to 48V systems is inevitable. The increasing need for mid- and low-voltage MOSFETs will be a key driver in this transformation, presenting significant opportunities for manufacturers and suppliers alike.
In summary, the shift towards 48V automotive low-voltage systems is driven by the need for higher power, improved efficiency, and advanced technologies. With the ongoing developments in MOSFET and GaN technologies, the future of automotive power systems looks promising. As vehicles become more electrified and intelligent, the demand for innovative solutions will continue to grow, paving the way for the next generation of automotive technologies.
1. What is the main advantage of a 48V system over a 12V system in vehicles?
The primary advantage is that a 48V system can handle higher power loads with greater efficiency, which is essential for modern vehicles with advanced features and technologies.
2. What types of MOSFETs are used in 48V automotive systems?
Mid-voltage MOSFETs rated at 80V and higher are commonly used in 48V systems due to their ability to manage the voltage levels effectively.
3. How does GaN technology benefit automotive applications?
GaN technology provides higher efficiency, faster switching speeds, and a smaller footprint, making it suitable for demanding automotive environments.
4. Are there any vehicles currently using a full 48V architecture?
Yes, Tesla's Cybertruck is an example of a mass-produced vehicle that features a complete 48V architecture.
5. What challenges do automotive manufacturers face in transitioning to 48V systems?
Challenges include the maturity of the supply chain, the availability of suitable components, and the need for comprehensive testing and validation of new technologies.
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