Toyota introduces Wolfspeed SiC power semiconductors, considering their durability to be better

[PCauto] Amid the rapid adoption of electric vehicles, silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductors have become the technological focus for automakers competing to develop them.

For Toyota, however, SiC is not merely a tool for improving efficiency; it is a critical component that must be sufficiently durable and reliable for mass production.

For this reason, Toyota recently decided to expand its collaboration with Wolfspeed, officially integrating its SiC MOSFET into Toyota's next-generation BEV onboard charging system.

Toyota Emphasizes Durability in Wolfspeed’s Silicon Carbide (SiC) Power Semiconductors

As one of the automakers worldwide that places the greatest emphasis on long-term reliability, Toyota has always been cautious in selecting suppliers.

In a public statement, Wolfspeed's management team noted that Toyota accepted its products because Wolfspeed's SiC MOSFET outperforms general market standards in durability testing, long-term thermal management capabilities, and power cycling lifetime.

The Key to Durability: Power Cycling Lifetime

During fast charging, long-distance driving, or in high-temperature environments, SiC devices in electric vehicles undergo significant temperature fluctuations, which can lead to material fatigue over time.

Wolfspeed's SiC technology is renowned for lower loss and enhanced thermal stability, enabling a longer lifespan under identical thermal cycling conditions.

Toyota's engineering team has repeatedly emphasized that, rather than pursuing impressive efficiency figures on paper, it is more crucial to ensure the stability of key components over a 10- to 15-year usage cycle.

It is worth noting that despite facing short-term financial pressures, Wolfspeed's automotive business continues to grow and remains one of the company's most strategic segments.

Wolfspeed has announced its Gen 4 SiC MOSFET technology platform, which further enhances thermal management capabilities and covers applications ranging from 750V to 2300V, enabling the system to maintain low losses under sustained loads.

Significance of Wolfspeed Partnership Extends Beyond Supply Chain

For Toyota, integrating Wolfspeed's SiC MOSFET is a crucial piece of the puzzle in strengthening its BEV platform.

Facing the global trend toward high-voltage fast charging, Toyota must inevitably enhance its foundational BEV technology. Selecting a more durable SiC supplier is thus a vital step in advancing its electrification strategy.

In the coming years, as high-voltage fast charging becomes mainstream, competition in SiC technology will shift from merely focusing on efficiency to addressing the core question: who can maintain stability after a decade of wear and tear? Toyota's choice has already pointed the way.