Nidec Corporation ("Nidec") and Renesas Electronics Corporation ("Renesas Electronics") have reached an agreement to jointly develop semiconductor solutions for the new generation E-Axle (X-in-1 system), which integrates the drive motor and power electronic devices of electric vehicles (EVs).
Nowadays, electric vehicles are increasingly adopting the E-Axle three-in-one electric drive system that combines the motor, inverter, and reducer. In order to achieve higher performance and efficiency, while realizing smaller size, lighter weight, and lower cost, as well as improving vehicle development efficiency, the trend of integrating power electronic controllers such as DC-DC converters and on-board chargers (OBCs) into the electric drive system is accelerating. Particularly in the rapidly growing EV market in China, many electric vehicle manufacturers have developed X-in-1 platforms integrating multiple functions, which are being adopted by an increasing number of models.
As the X-in-1 system incorporates various functions, it also increases complexity, making it increasingly challenging to maintain automotive standards. Therefore, the development of diagnostic functions and fault prediction safety technologies is essential for ensuring the reliability and safety of vehicles. To address this challenge, both companies have agreed to combine Nidec's motor technology with Renesas Electronics' semiconductor technology to jointly develop a high-quality, high-performance PoC (Proof of Concept) solution for the X-in-1 system, aiming to achieve industry-leading performance, efficiency, smaller size, lighter weight, and lower cost.
The two companies plan to launch the first six-in-one PoC by the end of 2023, which will be based on the motor, inverter, and reducer, and equipped with DC-DC converter, OBC, and power distribution unit. In addition, by 2024, Nidec and Renesas Electronics plan to develop a second X-in-1 PoC with even higher integration, including battery management systems (BMS) and other components. The first PoC will feature SiC (silicon carbide) power devices, while the second PoC will use high-frequency operation optimized GaN (gallium nitride) to replace DC-DC and OBC power devices, further realizing miniaturization and cost reduction.
Based on the jointly developed PoC, Nidec will quickly commercialize the E-Axle system, expand the E-Axle product lineup, and gradually establish a mass production system, driving the entire E-Axle market forward.
Renesas Electronics plans to use the jointly developed PoC as a reference design for the E-Axle and expand it, providing a "turnkey solution" for the increasingly complex X-in-1 system development.