Ampere and STMicroelectronics Partner for Advanced Silicon Carbide Powerbox in Next-Gen Electric Vehicles

STMicroelectronics
Image Courtesy: STMicroelectronics

Ampere, Renault Group’s dedicated electric vehicle brand, and STMicroelectronics, a global leader in semiconductors, have announced a strategic collaboration to develop advanced Silicon Carbide (SiC) power modules for Ampere’s ultra-efficient electric powertrains. Starting in 2026, the multi-year agreement ensures a long-term supply of SiC modules for Ampere’s powerbox, a key component in its cutting-edge inverter technology.

This partnership focuses on optimizing the powerbox, which plays a critical role in enhancing EV performance, energy efficiency, and driving range. Ampere’s expertise in EV systems and STMicroelectronics’ advanced power electronics capabilities have resulted in a highly efficient and competitive powertrain solution.

“This collaboration ensures we can offer high-performance electric vehicles with extended range and reduced charging time,” said Philippe Brunet, Senior Vice President of Powertrain & EV Engineering at Ampere. “It reflects our commitment to mastering the entire power electronics value chain for our e-powertrain.”

Michael Anfang, Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing at STMicroelectronics, stated, Our advanced power electronics solutions, combined with a vertically integrated SiC supply chain, support Ampere’s vision for sustainable mobility. This collaboration contributes to the mobility industry’s carbon reduction goals by enhancing power efficiency.”

The powerbox integrates multiple SiC-based power modules designed to optimize the conversion of battery power for electric motor use. This innovation significantly improves the powertrain’s efficiency, battery range, and energy recovery, while also enhancing driving smoothness and responsiveness.

The Powerbox is designed to optimize performance for 400V and 800V battery systems, enabling faster charging and extended range. It features an integrated excitation module for precise magnetic field control and a cooling baseplate to ensure efficient thermal management. For 800V systems, the Powerbox supports rapid charging, achieving a charge from 10% to 80% in under 15 minutes.

The collaboration aligns with Ampere’s strategy to control the EV value chain by integrating advanced technologies at every stage. As an integrated device manufacturer (IDM), STMicroelectronics ensures robust quality and a secure supply of critical components for automakers’ electrification strategies.

STMicroelectronics, with over 50,000 employees worldwide, is a leading semiconductor company driving innovation in smarter mobility, energy management, and connected technologies. With a focus on sustainability, the company is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2027.

Ampere, a brand born from Renault Group, is Europe’s first dedicated intelligent EV manufacturer. The company specializes in fully electric vehicles featuring advanced software technologies designed to deliver exceptional user experiences while prioritizing environmental and social responsibility.