Renesas Electronics Corporation has announced the world’s first “8-in-1” proof of concept* (PoC) for E-Axle systems for electric vehicles (EV). Accordingly, the company developed in collaboration with Nidec Corporation.

The PoC has eight functions using a single microcontroller (MCU) and integrates a motor, a gear (reduction gear) and an inverter. Moreover, it also has a DC/DC converter and an on-board battery charger (OBC). To ensure performance, the companies also performed system-level testing. Renesas will showcase a live demonstration of the new E-Axle design at electronica 2024 in Munich, Germany, November 12-15 (Hall B4, Stand 179).

Innovative Eight Functions

The E-Axle is a unit in EVs that combines a drive motor, a gear, and an inverter. By integrating multiple functions, the E-Axle system can reduce system size and weight, simplifying EV design.

In addition, Renesas provided key components, including semiconductors and a reference design for the new 8-in-1 E-Axle system. Renesas also plans to deliver turnkey semiconductor solutions for various X-in-1 systems based on the reference design verified through this PoC. Most importantly, developers can implement and evaluate X-in-1 systems instantly, accelerating EV development.

Together with the motor and gear from Nidec, the eight functions in this PoC include an inverter from Renesas with 70~100kW output performance with the maximum efficiency of 99 percent or highe. It also has a 1.5kW output DC/DC converter, a 6.6kW charge OBC and a power distribution unit (PDU). Meanwhile, it also has a battery management system (BMS) and Positive Temperature Co-efficiency (PTC) heater control for cars.

While generally each function of an E-Axle requires a dedicated MCU and a power management IC (PMIC) to control an X-in-1 system, Renesas successfully implemented a new E-Axle system which can operate with only one MCU and a PMIC to control the entire 8-in-1 system.

By systematically integrating these functions with a single MCU, the PoC has significantly reduced the number of components, cost and size.

Comprehensive System

This PoC, tested for optimal performance, includes numerous Renesas products. Among them are the 32-bit MCU RH850/U2B for automotive control, a PMIC for the MCU, the RAJ2930004AGM isolated gate driver, an IGBT module for the inverter, power devices for the DC/DC converter and OBC.

Furthermore, leveraging these innovations, Renesas can provide comprehensive system support and software for customers, along with key devices for X-in-1 solutions. Renesas remains committed to providing comprehensive system solutions including reference designs and software to accelerate EV development.
12 November 2024