48V automotive applications

Market segment introduction and ON Semiconductor marketing position

Currently one of the most significant developments in car design is the shift to hybrid and fully electric vehicles. This consequently requires a fundamental change in the architecture of vehicles’ electrical systems: the introduction of 48V DC systems alongside the traditional 12V DC systems.

One of the key reasons for this shift is that 48V allows higher currents and greater power delivery. And this is urgently needed as modern cars consume much more electrical energy through energy-intensive climate-control, powerful driver-assistance computers, complex infotainment systems etc.

But even more importantly adding 48V systems brings greater fuel economy and reduced emissions at relatively low cost by enabling hybridization. By driving auxiliary functions such as power steering racks, brake vacuum pumps and water pumps with electric motors rather than using a power transmission from the engine, 48V systems help to run internal combustion engines more efficiently.

The introduction of 48V will come gradually, with the 48V infrastructure to run alongside the traditional 12V system. Shifting to 48V demands the development of a wide range of new componentry that can operate at this higher voltage and meet the ambitious new standards of the automotive industry. 

Actually there is a fast development in power electronics ongoing to serve the opportunities created by the shift to 48V systems.

ON Semiconductor offers a wide range of 48V Mosfet solutions with a variety of break down voltages, technology, and package suitable for high-frequency switching or motor drive applications.

ON Semiconductor are a top 10 global semiconductor supplier to the automotive industry, with more than two decades of success delivering innovative, automotive grade semiconductor solutions. With an industry leading portfolio of more than 10,000 automotive grade (AEC) products, ON Semiconductor remains committed to rigorous quality standards that address the demands of the automotive industry.