Shanghai (ZXZC)- The leading intelligent power and sensing technology provider onsemi announced on Jan. 9 that it has renewed a comprehensive supply agreement with Li Auto, a main Chinese new energy vehicle manufacturer.

Li Auto had previously integrated onsemi's mature 8-megapixel image sensors into its extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) models. With this renewed agreement, Li Auto is set to leverage onsemi's high-performance EliteSiC 1,200V bare chip in its upcoming 800V high-voltage electric models. Furthermore, Li Auto plans to continue integrating onsemi's advanced 8-megapixel image sensors into its future vehicle models. This collaboration aims to accelerate the electrification of automobiles and enhance driving safety.

Photo credit: onsemi

As a global leader in the SiC (silicon carbide) field, onsemi boasts 15 years of mass production experience in SiC modules and stands as one of the few SiC manufacturers with a fully integrated supply chain.

The EliteSiC 1,200V product from onsemi offers a design with higher efficiency and reduced weight, contributing to increased range and faster charging. Its bare chips allow customers to tailor packaging designs according to specific application requirements. The 8-megapixel image sensor enhances the system's intelligent perception capabilities, enabling safer Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and advancing towards Level 3/Level 4 autonomous driving systems.

Li Auto emphasizes its goal to establish a product portfolio that concurrently develops EREVs and high-voltage pure electric vehicles by 2025. During the transition to 800V high voltage platform, Li Auto recognizes the importance of a stable and reliable SiC supply chain. onsemi, with its vertically integrated end-to-end SiC supply chain and scalable capacity, can ensure long-term supply and the advanced nature of technologies.

As SiC technology matures and intelligent electric vehicles accelerate towards high-voltage fast charging, the adoption of 800V platforms is emerging as a prominent trend. Notable models such as the XPeng G9, the Luxeed S7, the Geely Galaxy E8, the ZEEKR 007, the ARCFOX α T5, and the Xiaomi SU7 are all equipped with 800V high-voltage systems.

In terms of SiC deployment, Li Auto has not only entered into an agreement with onsemi, but has also collaborated with STMicroelectronics. Additionally, the company has partnered with SANAN Optoelectronics to establish a joint venture aimed at constructing a SiC production facility, which is expected to hit an annual production capacity of 2.4 million SiC half-bridge power modules.