Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 6 expected to get increased range with silicon-carbide power module
STMicroelectronics has announced that it will supply the Hyundai Motor Group with ACEPACK DRIVE power modules to boost the range of several of its EVs based on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). While the Kia EV6 has been officially named as a model to receive the new part, it is also expected that the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Hyundai Ioniq 6 and Genesis GV60 could use the technology in the future.
The five new ST power modules are made of silicon carbide (SiC), boosting the vehicle's performance. They are suitable for a range of power ratings and voltages up to 1,200 V. STMicroelectronics claims that the SiC-MOSFET-based power modules are robust and built with sintering technology. The new 800 V SiC modules for the Hyundai Motor Group EVs will replace the existing 400 V silicon modules.
In an earlier interview, Choi WooSuk, Head of the Electrification Development Center for the Hyundai Motor Group, claimed that the SiC power modules could boost the range of an electric vehicle by up to 5%. For context, that would increase the range of the Kia EV6 from 328 miles (~528 km) to 344 miles (~554 km) or the Hyundai Ioniq 6 from 338 miles (~544 km) to 355 miles (~571 km). The parts are also expected to boost charging times, making them up to three times faster. It is unclear when customers will be able to purchase vehicles with the latest STMicroelectronics SiC power modules.
