Driving the Future: SiC Technology’s Impact on Electric Vehicles

Silicon carbide is a chemical compound that offers numerous benefits as a semiconductor material in the high-voltage environment of today’s electric vehicles. Compared with traditional silicon, silicon carbide can reduce losses in voltage and current while improving thermal efficiency — all of which can help reduce the size and weight of essential power electronic components in EVs.

Discussing the same issue, Abdullah partook in an in-depth dialogue with a number of the industry’s acclaimed specialists, such as, Hari Kiran, Co-Founder and COO, eBikeGo; Abhinav Kalia, CEO and Co-Founder, ARC Electric; SUNIL SHAHDADPURI, Co-Founder, ETRIC Mobility Solution; Kamal Sethi, Director, CoE-Automotive, Quest Global; Mitull Batraa, Co-founder and CEO, Udaan E Vehicles.

Advancements in SiC Technology and Electric Vehicle Performance

The integration of SiC technology into EV power electronics results in enhanced vehicle performance, enabling faster acceleration, extended driving range, and more efficient energy utilization, ultimately enhancing the overall EV driving experience.

Speaking on the topic, Hari Kiran, Co-Founder and COO, eBikeGo, expressed, “eBikeGo has always prioritized the adoption of new technology to refine and expand our product line. SiC is a technology that has a bright future in the improvement of electric vehicle performance which is why we expect to see continued improvements in efficiency, allowing for long driving ranges and compact energy storage solutions.

The thermal properties and power densities of SiC are important in designing lighter and more efficient power electronics. This will improve the performance of the vehicle and also reduce the overall cost, making EVs more accessible not only for us but also for our customers.”

On the other hand, Abhinav Kalia, CEO and Co-Founder, ARC Electric feels, “Advancements in Silicon Carbide (SiC) technology are poised to significantly enhance electric vehicle (EV) performance in the future. SiC, a compound semiconductor comprising silicon and carbide, is pivotal in the evolution of power electronics. It offers a remarkable blend of physical and electronic properties that promise to revolutionize EVs. Firstly, SiC-based power electronics enable higher power density within EV powertrains, leading to improved performance and more efficient space utilization within the vehicle. Additionally, SiC devices are capable of operating at elevated temperatures compared to conventional silicon-based devices, enhancing the overall reliability and robustness of EV power systems. Moreover, SiC power electronics exhibit reduced energy losses during power transmission and conversion processes, translating into higher system efficiency, optimized battery utilization, and extended driving range for EVs.

SiC MOSFETs further provide accelerated switching frequencies, enabling more precise control and responsiveness within EV powertrains, thereby enhancing overall performance. Furthermore, the enhanced thermal conductivity of SiC devices permits simplified cooling mechanisms, contributing to compact designs and efficient heat dissipation. SiC components also demonstrate superior voltage tolerance, making them well-suited for EV applications, particularly in facilitating high-power rapid battery charging. However, challenges such as electromagnetic interference (EMI), reliability concerns, insulation, transient voltage management, and cooling complexity need to be addressed. Despite these challenges, SiC technology holds the promise of advancing EVs towards greater efficiency, faster charging, and enhanced driving experiences, with ongoing research expected to yield further advancements in SiC module packaging, driver design, and electric machine strategies.”

According to SUNIL SHAHDADPURI, Co-Founder, ETRIC Mobility Solution, “Silicon Carbide (SiC) technology is already making waves in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, but its potential for further improvement is quite exciting. Here’s how SiC is expected to enhance EV performance in the future:

• Increased Driving Range: SiC components boast higher efficiency by reducing energy loss during power conversion within the EV. This translates directly to a longer driving range on a single charge.
• Faster Charging Times: SiC allows for higher switching frequencies, enabling the design of more efficient on-board chargers. This can significantly reduce charging times, making EVs more convenient to use for long trips.
• Reduced System Size and Weight: SiC components are smaller due to their ability to handle higher voltages and currents. This translates to a lighter overall EV design, which can further improve efficiency and potentially increase driving range.
• Improved Thermal Management: SiC offers superior thermal conductivity compared to traditional silicon. This allows for better heat dissipation, improving the reliability and lifespan of EV power electronics.
• Lower Overall Costs: While SiC technology might have a higher upfront cost, it’s expected to lead to a reduction in overall system size and complexity. This, along with the potential for using smaller cooling systems, could lead to a decrease in production costs in the long run.

Overall, SiC technology is a game-changer for EVs. As SiC becomes more affordable and widely adopted, we can expect to see EVs with longer range, faster charging, and a more competitive price tag. This will undoubtedly accelerate the transition towards environmentally friendly electric transportation.”

According to Kamal Sethi, Director, CoE-Automotive, Quest Global, “Silicon carbide (SiC) technology forms the core of electric vehicle (EV) performance, representing an advancement over earlier materials such as graphite. Initially, graphite and traditional silicon became the backbone of electric cars due to their availability and proven manufacturing processes.

However, the limitations of these materials, especially in terms of performance, energy density, and thermal management, have led to further changes in material use. Moreover, China’s recent ban on graphite makes it an essential ingredient in making anodes.

SiC as a wide bandgap semiconductor, has emerged as a superior choice because of its enhanced performance, higher power density, ability to operate at higher temperatures, while also facilitating greater electricity thoughput.
This change has many advantages:

1. Improved performance: SiC’s lower performance and good thermal conductivity will increase EV range and reduce cooling.
2. Charge faster: SiC power retention speeds up battery charging time.
3. Improved energy efficiency: SiC components are smaller and lighter, helping to improve the vehicle’s overall performance.
4. Improved durability: SiC’s durability in extreme weather conditions extends protection life.
5. Cost reduction period: Continued progress and expansion of production will reduce the cost of silicon carbide, making the electric car cheaper.”

Mitull Batraa, Co-founder and CEO, Udaan E Vehicles, said, “Advancements in SiC technology are set to significantly enhance electric vehicle performance in the future. SiC offers lower losses, enabling smaller sizes and higher frequencies, ultimately leading to higher efficiency and simpler, more compact cooling systems. With its ability to handle higher operating temperatures and lower thermal impedance, SiC simplifies vehicle cooling systems while maintaining reliability. These advancements translate to benefits for end-users, including lower costs, increased mileage, spacious designs, and higher power density in new electric vehicles.”

SiC’s Influence on Thermal Management in Electric Vehicle Components

Thermal management entails regulating heat flows inside the vehicle. After all, components must be operated in their respective optimal temperature range while also generating pleasant temperatures for passengers in the vehicle interior.

Hari Kiran, Co-Founder and COO, eBikeGo, said,“Using SiC Technology in Electric Vehicles is a smart choice because it holds the power to handle higher temperatures better than the usual silicon used in electronics. This eventually implies that we won’t require big or heavy cooling systems to avoid overheating. This makes the vehicles lighter and more spacious. Better management of the thermal environment allows increased reliability and longer life spans for EV components which is essential for sustainable vehicle design.”

Abhinav Kalia, CEO and Co-Founder, ARC Electric, expressed, “Silicon Carbide (SiC) technology significantly influences the thermal management of electric vehicle (EV) components, leading to improved performance and efficiency. SiC-based components enable the creation of more streamlined designs due to their heightened power density, resulting in compactness and weight reduction. This reduction benefits EVs by freeing up space for additional components and enhancing overall vehicle efficiency. Moreover, SiC devices demonstrate lower on-state resistance and switching losses compared to conventional silicon devices, leading to enhanced efficiency and reduced heat generation, thereby alleviating thermal management demands. Efficient SiC power electronics play a crucial role in extending the driving ranges of EVs by minimizing energy loss converted into heat, effectively utilizing power for propulsion and enhancing overall mileage.

Additionally, SiC components contribute to the optimization of charging infrastructure by facilitating swift charging times and maintaining competitive energy costs. With EVs and chargers transitioning to higher voltage systems, SiC technology enables this shift, resulting in extended driving ranges and improved charging efficiency. Furthermore, SiC boasts approximately three times the thermal conductivity of silicon, enabling efficient heat dissipation from SiC components and effective temperature management within the system. In summary, SiC technology elevates thermal management practices by enhancing efficiency, reducing heat generation, and enabling the development of more efficient charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.”

“Sic technology, also referred to as Silicon Carbide (SiC), plays a significant role in improving the thermal management of electric vehicle (EV) components, particularly in power electronics. Here’s how:

• Higher Efficiency: SiC semiconductors operate with lower switching losses compared to traditional Silicon (Si) based components like Insulated-Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBTs). This reduction in energy wasted as heat leads to less heat generation within the power electronics themselves.
• Smaller Heat Sinks: Due to the lower heat generation, SiC technology allows for the use of smaller and lighter heat sinks for cooling. This translates to weight reduction in the overall EV and potentially increased driving range.
• System Design Flexibility: The improved thermal performance of SiC enables engineers more freedom in designing the EV’s thermal management system. This could lead to simpler cooling systems with fewer components, or even the possibility of using air cooling in some situations, which is typically less efficient than liquid cooling.

It’s important to note that SiC technology also presents some challenges. SiC devices can be more expensive than traditional Si components, and require different packaging and manufacturing techniques. However, the ongoing advancements and increasing adoption of SiC are expected to bring down the costs and make it a more mainstream solution for EV thermal management.

Overall, SiC technology is a major advancement in achieving efficient thermal management for electric vehicle components, leading to better performance and range,” said, SUNIL SHAHDADPURI, Co-Founder, ETRIC Mobility Solution.

Kamal Sethi, Director, CoE-Automotive, Quest Global, explains, ”Silicon Carbide (SiC) technology improves thermal management in electric vehicles (EVs) through its superior thermal properties to traditional silicon. SiC’s higher thermal conductivity allows for efficient heat dissipation, enabling components to operate at higher power densities without excessive heat buildup. This reduces the need for extensive cooling systems, leading to lighter and simpler cooling solutions that enhance vehicle efficiency and range. Additionally, the ability of SiC components to maintain high performance at elevated temperatures ensures reliable operation and extends the lifespan of EV systems. Overall, SiC technology offers significant advantages for thermal management in EVs, contributing to more compact, efficient, and durable electric vehicles.

Mitull Batraa, Co-founder and CEO, Udaan E Vehicles, said, “SiC technology profoundly influences the thermal management of electric vehicle components. SiC devices boast approximately three times more thermal conductivity than silicon, facilitating faster heat dissipation from components. This characteristic is crucial as smaller Si-based devices make it challenging to extract heat efficiently during electrical conversion processes. SiC’s superior thermal properties alleviate these challenges, contributing to more efficient thermal management within electric vehicles.”

Exploring SiC Technology’s Potential to Lighten Electric Vehicle Powertrains

Most contemporary electric cars are 25% to 30 % heavier than gasoline cars of comparable size and power output. However, their range is about 30% less than that of an average gasoline vehicle.

Hari Kiran, Co-Founder and COO, eBikeGo, expressed, “SiC technology has a very critical role in the size and weight reduction of EV powertrain systems. Thus, it is of very high efficiency and power density and allows for smaller and lighter electronic components. They contribute to reducing the overall vehicle weight, thus, enhancing the efficiency, performance, and driving experience of the user.

Abhinav Kalia, CEO and Co-Founder, ARC Electric, explains, “Silicon Carbide (SiC) technology plays a important part in reducing the size and weight of electric vehicle (EV) powertrain systems. Firstly, SiC-based power devices enable higher power density within the same spatial constraints, leading to more compact and condensed EV powertrains. This increase in power density creates room for additional components, enhancing overall efficiency.”

Additionally, SiC devices demonstrate lower on-state resistance and switching losses compared to conventional silicon devices, resulting in reduced heat generation and simpler cooling mechanisms. This reduction in heat emission facilitates smaller heat sinks, further contributing to the overall size and weight reduction of the powertrain system. SiC technology also allows for the integration of multiple functions into a single module, such as combining motor drives and traction inverters. This consolidation not only reduces size and weight but also lowers expenses associated with component count. Moreover, by substituting silicon-based designs with SiC devices in EV chargers, circuit designs become more streamlined, leading to smaller and lighter charging systems. As EVs transition towards higher voltage systems, SiC technology facilitates this shift, enhancing efficiency and contributing to an overall reduction in size. In summary, SiC technology drives a significant transformation in EV powertrains, enhancing their efficiency, compactness, and lightness, ultimately enriching the driving experience and extending the vehicle’s range.

SUNIL SHAHDADPURI, Co-Founder, ETRIC Mobility Solution, said, “Sic technology, also referred to as Silicon Carbide, can significantly help in reducing the size and weight of an electric vehicle’s powertrain system. Here’s how:

• Higher Power Density: Silicon Carbide components can handle higher voltages and currents compared to traditional silicon components. This allows for smaller components to achieve the same power output, leading to a more compact inverter and converter system [2].
• Faster Switching Speeds: SiC devices can switch on and off much faster than silicon. This enables the use of smaller transformers and inductors, further reducing the overall size and weight of the powertrain [4].

These size and weight reductions translate to several benefits for electric vehicles:

• Increased Range: With a lighter powertrain, EVs can carry more battery packs, extending their driving range on a single charge [3].
• Improved Efficiency: SiC components have lower energy losses compared to silicon, which means less wasted energy as heat. This translates to a more efficient system and potentially even longer range [4].
• Packaging Flexibility: A smaller powertrain frees up space within the vehicle for other components or design improvements.

Overall, Sic technology is a key driver in making electric vehicle powertrains more efficient, compact, and lighter, paving the way for a more practical and appealing electric driving experience.”
Kamal Sethi, Director, CoE-Automotive, Quest Global, explains, “Yes, Silicon Carbide (SiC) technology can significantly help in reducing the size and weight of electric vehicle (EV) powertrain systems. Several key attributes of SiC components facilitate this reduction:

1. Higher Efficiency: SiC semiconductors are more efficient than their silicon counterparts, generating less heat during operation. This reduced heat generation allows for smaller cooling systems, decreasing overall size and weight.
2. Higher Temperature Operation: SiC devices can operate at higher temperatures than silicon devices without degradation in performance. This capability can further reduce the size of cooling components required, minimizing the powertrain system’s weight and volume.
3. Increased Power Density: Thanks to SiC’s ability to handle higher voltages and currents, power electronic devices from SiC can be more compact while delivering the same or greater power levels. This results in smaller and lighter powertrain components.
4. Reduced Energy Losses: SiC’s efficiency in converting energy reduces losses in the form of heat, minimizing the need for large and heavy heat dissipation components. This efficiency translates to smaller inverters, converters, and other power electronics, trimming down the overall powertrain weight and size.”

Mitull Batraa, Co-founder and CEO, Udaan E Vehicles, clarifies, “SiC technology holds the potential to reduce the size and weight of electric vehicle powertrain systems. By replacing silicon-based designs with SiC devices, power electronics become more efficient, leading to simplified circuit designs, increased power density, and enhanced bidirectionality. This results in a reduction in the number of parts and overall system size, weight, and cost, ultimately benefiting electric vehicle powertrain systems.

SiC’s Role in Enhancing Fast Charging for Electric Vehicles

High-voltage fast charging for electric vehicles has become the key to promoting market development. Silicon carbide (SiC) technology has a high breakdown field strength, low on-state resistance, and off-state leakage current, which meets the needs of electric vehicles.

According to Hari Kiran, Co-Founder and COO, eBikeGo, “SiC technology performs a vital role in increasing the fast charging capacity of electric vehicles. It allows for larger power handling by enabling faster heat withdrawal, leading to quicker charging processes. eBikeGo is at the forefront for manufacturing Electric two-wheelers that are not only light and efficient, but also high-performing. Thus, we believe that this advancement marks an important step to overcome one of the main factors that go against the adoption of electric vehicles and enhance the usefulness and convenience of electric vehicles.”

“Silicon Carbide (SiC) technology will enhance the fast charging capabilities of electric vehicles (EVs). Firstly, SiC-based power electronics, such as SiC MOSFETs, demonstrate reduced switching losses and lower on-state resistance, resulting in enhanced efficiency during charging. This efficiency improvement minimizes energy losses, allowing for faster battery replenishment. Moreover, SiC devices possess a high breakdown field strength, enabling them to withstand higher voltages without breakdown. This capability facilitates the development of high-power fast charging systems operating at elevated voltages, further expediting the charging process. Additionally, SiC technology enables shorter charging cycles due to its ability to handle higher currents and voltages, allowing EVs equipped with SiC-based chargers to achieve significant charge levels in a reduced duration. SiC MOSFETs also enable bidirectional power flow between EVs and the grid, facilitating Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) applications that benefit from SiC’s efficiency and rapid charging capabilities. Furthermore, SiC-based medium-voltage (MV) grid-connected fast-charging stations offer enhanced efficiency, power density, and current limiting, catering to various categories of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) simultaneously and supporting V2G operations. In summary, SiC technology accelerates EV charging, diminishes charging times, and contributes to the widespread adoption of electric vehicles,” says, Abhinav Kalia, CEO and Co-Founder, ARC Electric

“Silicon Carbide, or SiC, plays a critical role in enabling faster charging times for electric vehicles (EVs). Here’s how:

• Higher Power Handling: SiC devices can withstand higher voltages and currents compared to traditional silicon-based components. This allows fast chargers to deliver more power to the EV battery in a shorter amount of time.
• Reduced Energy Loss: SiC has lower electrical resistance, which means less energy is wasted as heat during the charging process. This translates to faster charging and less strain on the electrical grid.
• Compact Designs: SiC components are smaller and lighter than their silicon counterparts. This enables the development of more compact and efficient fast-charging stations.
• Thermal Efficiency: SiC operates at higher temperatures than silicon, reducing the need for bulky cooling systems in chargers. This translates to simpler designs and potentially lower costs.

Overall, SiC paves the way for a future where EV charging is faster, more efficient, and more convenient, addressing a key concern for widespread EV adoption – range anxiety,” views, SUNIL SHAHDADPURI, Co-Founder, ETRIC Mobility Solution

Kamal Sethi, Director, CoE-Automotive, Quest Global , said, “Silicon Carbide (SiC) technology plays a crucial role in enhancing the fast charging capabilities of electric vehicles (EVs) due to its superior electrical properties. Here are the key ways in which SiC contributes to improved fast charging:

1. High Efficiency at High Frequencies – SiC components can operate efficiently at high switching frequencies, which is essential for the rapid conversion of AC (Alternating Current) from the grid to DC (Direct Current) needed to charge EV batteries. Higher efficiency means less energy is lost as heat, enabling faster and more energy-efficient charging.
2. Reduced Heat Generation– Due to its high thermal conductivity and ability to operate at higher temperatures, SiC generates less heat than traditional silicon-based components during the charging process. This reduced heat generation minimizes the need for extensive cooling systems in charging equipment, which can otherwise limit charging speeds.
3. Tolerance to High Voltages– SiC’s ability to withstand high voltages without degrading allows charging systems to operate at higher voltage levels. High-voltage charging is a critical factor in fast charging technology, as it enables quicker energy transfer to the EV battery without compromising the system’s reliability or efficiency.
4. Compact and Lightweight Charging Equipment– The efficiency and high-frequency operation of SiC allow for smaller and lighter charging equipment. This benefits both onboard chargers within EVs and the infrastructure of fast-charging stations. Compact equipment reduces physical and thermal constraints, facilitating the development of fast-charging solutions that are easier to install and maintain.
5. Enabling High Power Charging Infrastructure- SiC technology is integral to developing ultra-fast charging infrastructure that can deliver very high power levels, significantly reducing charging times for EVs. By supporting the rapid and efficient conversion of electricity, SiC makes it feasible to offer charging rates of hundreds of kilowatts, aiming to charge EV batteries to 80% in minutes rather than hours.”

Mitull Batraa, Co-founder and CEO, Udaan E Vehicles, explains “SiC plays a, important role in enhancing fast charging capabilities for electric vehicles. By using SiC devices in the AC/DC block of chargers, circuit designs are simplified, and power density and efficiency are significantly increased. This allows for faster charging times, as well as reductions in size, weight, and cost of charging systems. Moreover, SiC’s specific physical properties make it an ideal solution for meeting the strict size and efficiency requirements of powerful fast-charging systems.”

Recent Innovations in Automotive Electronics

Automotive Electronics’ has been an active subject over the past 2 decades. In the late 80’s Indian automobile industry gathered new impetus due to introduction of several new models of LCV’s & 2 wheelers. The impact of the presence of automobiles on road was being felt by driver & passengers and pedestrians on & along the roads. An automobiles provides comfort to the former but on the other side latter category is subjected to the health hazards due to emission of obnoxious fumes and accidents. Technological developments, till date have been for improvement of fuel efficiency, comfort, safety & reduction in exhaust emissions.

Hari Kiran, said, “At eBikeGo, we continuously try to innovate and reinvent ourselves in the automotive electronics segment. Our collaboration with Acer led to the development of the ACER MUVI 125 5G, an electric scooter equipped with advanced IoT and AI capabilities. This vehicle is an indicator of our common goal and commitment towards environmental sustainability. It exemplifies how SiC technology could be adopted as a part of everyday driving, thus improving fuel economy.”

“We’re not a technology development firm; rather, we specialize in car rental services. Our company has engineered its own software platform tailored for streamlined booking and efficient utilization of cabs, ensuring both cost-effectiveness and optimal service delivery,” says, Abhinav Kalia.

SUNIL SHAHDADPURI, explains, “We are not into any automotive electronics component development, however ETRIC MOBILITY offers Technology Driven App-Based 100% EV-Ride Hailing Services for 4W Urban Shared Mobility. Incorporated in Hyderabad on 23/03/2022, ETRIC is focussed on providing cost-effective, reliable, sustainable and clean & green Airport Transportation Services by use of Electric Vehicles.

ETRIC Customer Apps & Driver Apps are available both in iOS & Android. & our services are operational since April 2023 in Hyderabad.”

“At Quest Global, we leverage advanced technologies such as Silicon, Embedded Systems, Software, and Artificial Intelligence. We help adopt battery related use cases and we have collaborated across multiple sectors like Automotive, Energy, Rail, Hi-Tech and Telecom with respect to case studies on battery management. Moreover, we have undertaken various projects encompassing the design and development of Electric Vehicle components, including vehicle chargers, and charging infrastructure,” said, Kamal Sethi.

Mitull Batraa, expressed, “We at Udaan have introduced a range of products showcasing superior design, extended range, and enhanced performance while prioritizing safety. One notable project involves the development of products featuring a 1200 Watt Motor and Controller Smart Connect Technology. Additionally, we have expanded our product range to include offerings such as 48 Volt 4-Battery and 6-Volt 5-Batteries, along with Li-ion based battery products featuring CED Coated paint technology. These initiatives underscore our dedication to advancing automotive electronics through research and development, aiming to offer products that excel in design, performance, and safety. These efforts demonstrate our dedication to research and development, aiming for top-notch design, performance, and safety in our products.”