ZF partners with Danfoss for silicon-carbide power modules

Under this partnership, the two companies will engage in joint research and development, with Danfoss also supplying power modules for silicon applications.

ZF Friedrichshafen AG and Danfoss Silicon Power GmbH have signed a new strategic partnership for silicon and silicon-carbide power modules, the German auto component manufacturer informs in a release.

The two companies plan to improve the efficiency of electric drivelines by leveraging engineering and cost benefits at the interface between power modules and inverters.

Commenting on the partnership, Jorg Grotendorst, Head of ZF’s E-Mobility Division, said, “This is a robust long-term partnership that enables ZF and Danfoss to pool their strengths. Coming together on this opens up significant innovation potential to improve the technical and commercial competitiveness of our inverters. We will utilize this advantage in all our drivetrain applications, from hybrid up to full electric applications."

Under this partnership, the two companies will engage in joint research and development, with Danfoss also supplying power modules for silicon applications.

One of the first major milestones in this new initiative is a supply contract for Danfoss power modules destined for large-scale ZF volume production projects, claims ZF.

Beside the 400-volt standard applications, the two companies have also begun co-developing an 800 volt Silicon Carbide power module for a large volume production project, aiming to position themselves at the forefront of this new segment, as the company informs in the release.