Shanghai (ZXZC)- STMicroelectronics and Geely Auto Group recently signed a long-term supply agreement for silicon carbide (SiC) devices, further accelerating their existing cooperation on SiC components, according to a post on STMicroelectronics China's WeChat account.

According to the agreement, STMicroelectronics will supply SiC power devices for Geely's mid-to-high-end battery electric vehicle (BEV) brands. These devices will help Geely enhance the performance of its electric vehicles, speed up charging times, extend driving range, and deepen its transition to new energy vehicles.

Photo credit:  STMicroelectronics

Additionally, the two companies will establish an innovative joint laboratory based on their long-term cooperation in various automotive applications. This lab will facilitate the exchange and exploration of innovative solutions in automotive electronic/electrical (E/E) architectures (such as in-vehicle infotainment and smart cockpit systems), advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and new energy vehicles.

Electric drive inverters are the core of electric drive systems, and SiC MOSFETs can significantly improve their efficiency. Geely's electric drive inverters already utilize STMicroelectronics' third-generation SiC MOSFET devices.

As a global leader in semiconductor field, STMicroelectronics possesses advanced SiC production technology and a fully vertically integrated supply chain. In recent years, the company has continued to increase its investment in the Chinese market. In June last year, STMicroelectronics announced a joint venture agreement with SANAN Optoelectronics to build an 8-inch SiC device manufacturing plant in Chongqing city to better meet the needs of Chinese customers.

Recent sales data shows that in May of this year, Geely Auto Group sold over 160,000 vehicles, marking a year-on-year jump of more than 38% and a month-on-month increase of about 5%. Among these, new energy vehicles continued their strong growth, with May sales (including Geely, Lynk & Co, and ZEEKR brands) reaching 58,673 units, a year-on-year soar of about 146% and a month-on-month increase of over 14%. For the first five months of 2024, Geely Auto Group sold 254,226 new energy vehicles, representing a 126% spike over a year earlier.