Integration with automotive software
Excellent voltage conversion efficiency and low heat dissipation

STMicroelectronics announced that Toyota Industries Corporation (TICO) has selected ST’s automotive 32-bit microcontrollers and power MOSFETs for the DC-DC converters in Toyota’s new fourth-generation Prius hybrid car platform.

This DC-DC converter forms the basis of the power control unit, which is the heart of hybrid electric vehicles, along with the inverter and variable voltage system. ST supplies the automotive 32-bit MCU in the DC-DC converter of the new Prius to regulate the voltage reduction of the current generated by the battery or generator in 14-volt subsystems such as the car radio, lights, and wipers. The DC-DC converter also uses two of ST’s power MOSFETs. Combined with TICO’s software, this not only enables highly efficient voltage conversion and low heat dissipation, but also helps miniaturize the power control unit.

ST's automotive-grade microcontroller used in the new Prius' DC-DC converter is based on the PowerPC architecture. Manufactured with ST's proprietary embedded flash technology.

ST's power MOSFETs have a breakdown voltage range of 500 to 1500 volts, and their low gate charge, low on-resistance and advanced packaging technologies combine to deliver efficient power-handling performance.

“The ST-integrated DC-DC converter developed by TICO for the new 4th-generation Prius sets a new benchmark in efficiency and technical features, and is a precedent that demonstrates the industry’s move toward smart driving,” said Marco Cassis, STMicroelectronics Executive Vice President and General Manager, Korea and Japan. “We are delighted to have contributed to this technological innovation by providing automotive microcontrollers and power-conversion devices that deliver robust performance without any compromises.”