Renesas Electronics Corporation (TSE:6723), a global leader in semiconductor solutions, today introduced the world’s first “8-in-1” proof of concept (PoC) for electric vehicle (EV) E-Axle systems. This groundbreaking system integrates eight key functions—motor, gear, inverter, DC/DC converter, and on-board battery charger (OBC)—into a single microcontroller (MCU). Developed in partnership with Nidec Corporation, the PoC represents a significant step toward reducing size, weight, and complexity in EV design.
Renesas will showcase the new E-Axle system with a live demonstration at electronica 2024 in Munich, Germany, from November 12-15 (Hall B4, Stand 179).
Reducing Complexity with Integrated E-Axle Solutions
An E-Axle combines a drive motor, gear, and inverter into one compact unit, optimizing space and reducing the number of components in an EV’s powertrain. By integrating multiple functions into a single system, the 8-in-1 PoC minimizes the need for separate MCUs and power management ICs (PMICs), resulting in a smaller, more cost-effective solution.
The eight functions included in this PoC are:
- Inverter (70-100kW output with 99%+ efficiency)
- DC/DC Converter (1.5kW output)
- On-board Charger (OBC) (6.6kW)
- Power Distribution Unit (PDU)
- Battery Management System (BMS)
- Positive Temperature Co-efficient (PTC) Heater Control
Together with Nidec’s motor and gear, these functions are all controlled by a single Renesas MCU and PMIC, reducing the system’s component count and complexity.
Advanced Components for Maximum Performance
This PoC features several key Renesas products, including:
- RH850/U2B 32-bit MCU for automotive control
- PMIC for MCU power management
- RAJ2930004AGM Isolated Gate Driver
- IGBT module for the inverter
- Power devices for the DC/DC converter and OBC
System-level testing has confirmed the high performance and efficiency of the integrated 8-in-1 solution, marking a key milestone in EV development.
Accelerating EV Development with Turnkey Solutions
Renesas aims to further accelerate EV development by offering complete turnkey semiconductor solutions based on the verified 8-in-1 reference design. These solutions enable developers to implement and evaluate X-in-1 systems more easily, reducing time-to-market for next-generation EV technologies.
Chris Allexandre, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Power at Renesas, commented, “We are excited to deliver the world-class 8-in-1 E-Axle solution and showcase its verified performance in collaboration with Nidec. This project exemplifies Renesas’ commitment to offering comprehensive system-level solutions that help our customers accelerate EV development and bring products to market faster.”
A Collaborative Innovation for the EV Market
Ryuji Omura, Senior Vice President, Deputy Chief Technology Officer, and Head of Nidec Semiconductor Solutions Center, added, “The demand for smaller, lower-cost E-Axle systems is growing rapidly in the EV market. By using a single MCU to control the entire electric powertrain, we can reduce both weight and cost. We’re proud to have developed this world-first PoC, and we look forward to scaling this innovation to meet the evolving needs of the industry.”
Renesas and Nidec’s collaboration sets the stage for a scalable approach to X-in-1 integration, helping to meet the diverse requirements of various EV segments. Future developments may expand the platform to accommodate different combinations of integrated functions, providing a flexible foundation for future electric powertrain designs.
