Infineon has unveiled a 1300V silicon carbide (SiC) power module capable of continuous operation at up to 205°C. It is characterized by raising the allowable operating temperature of power modules for electric vehicle inverters from the existing 175°C level, thereby expanding the options available to automakers and Tier 1 suppliers to adjust power density and cooling system designs.

Infineon Technologies announced on June 4 the launch of the 'FS01M9R13A7MA2B' 1300V SiC module for the HybridPACK Drive family of electric vehicle drive inverters. According to Infineon's official announcement, the product can operate continuously at up to 205°C, which differs from existing power module designs for electric vehicle inverters, which are typically allowed up to 175°C.

This product enables up to 15% higher output current compared to existing designs by increasing the allowable junction temperature. The module size, footprint, and interface remain the same as existing products, allowing it to be applied to existing inverter platforms. It can also be utilized to improve the performance of existing vehicle platforms, as it can increase output performance without separate structural changes or long-term redesign.

Expanding the operating temperature range also impacts the design of cooling systems. If power modules operate over a higher temperature range, the inverter cooling structure can be designed to be smaller and simpler. This can lead to reduced system costs, vehicle weight reduction, and improved energy efficiency.

The voltage specifications have also been raised. This module is the first in the HybridPACK Drive product family to support a 1,300V cutoff voltage. It is a design element intended to ensure inverter performance, efficiency, and durability in electric vehicle platforms using battery voltages of 900V or higher.

Infineon plans to extend the application of 205°C operation capabilities to its existing 1200V SiC module portfolio in the future. As electric vehicle platforms continue to increase in voltage, expanding the allowable temperature of power modules is expected to broaden the adjustment range for inverter output and cooling designs.