As early as mid-2023, Nidec and Renesas announced their intention to develop an ‘X-in-1’ system that combines the electric motor and power electronics and offers comparatively high performance and efficiency, while being small, lightweight and low cost. They are now presenting their solution as part of a live demonstration at electronica 2024 in Munich. This is a proof of concept and not yet a production-ready device.
Together with the motor and gearbox, the unit houses an inverter with an output power of 70 to 100 kW and a maximum efficiency of 99 per cent, a DC/DC converter with an output of 1.5 kW, a 6.6 kW onboard charger, a power distribution unit, a battery management system and a PTC heating control system.
The special feature: The study controls the eight functions with a single microcontroller. “By systematically integrating these functions with a single MCU, the PoC has significantly reduced the number of components, cost and size,” notes Renesas. “We are thrilled to deliver the world-class 8-in-1 E-Axle solution and have successfully verified its operational performance in collaboration with Nidec,” said Chris Allexandre, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Power at Renesas.
“We are committed to delivering a broad range of power management products that work together with our digital products to provide complete, ready-to-use, system-level solutions. This approach enables Renesas to help customers accelerate their development and time to mark.