- News
5 February 2018
ON Semiconductor partners with Audi on electronics for autonomous and electric vehicles
© Semiconductor Today Magazine / Juno PublishiPicture: Disco’s DAL7440 KABRA laser saw.
ON Semiconductor of Phoenix, AZ, USA – which supplies power management, analog, sensors, logic, timing, connectivity, discrete, system-on-chip (SoC) and custom devices for automotive, communications, computing, consumer, industrial, medical, aerospace and defense applications – has announced a strategic relationship with Audi AG following its selection to become part of the German car maker’s Progressive SemiConductor Program (PSCP).
The goal of the interdisciplinary semiconductor strategy is to foster innovation along with quality and make the latest technologies available for Audi models early on, satisfying the rapidly changing and developing expectations of customers in terms of performance, reliability, safety and operating convenience.
Automotive innovations have increasingly been enabled by semiconductor-based solutions – a trend set to continue due to sophisticated powertrain electrification, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and the progression towards autonomous driving. In addition, other applications such as those related to comfort and convenience, infotainment and vehicle connectivity are driving semiconductor use in the automotive sector. A high priority is therefore being placed on establishing programs and standards in alignment with leading semiconductor suppliers to create a mutual understanding of technology innovation and quality.
ON Semiconductor provides image sensors, power management and connectivity for automated driving systems. The firm has a portfolio of power solutions including modules and silicon carbide (SiC)/gallium nitride (GaN) wide-bandgap devices that enable the development of highly efficient, next-generation electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs).
“With semiconductors being so vital to recent and future developments on our vehicle platforms, we recognized that traditional automotive innovation cycles were no longer appropriate for keeping pace with consumer demand for exciting new technologies in all areas of the vehicle,” says Dr Thomas M. Mueller, Audi’s head of electrics/electronics. “Partnering with a market leader like ON Semiconductor on our PSCP will provide the perfect framework for close collaboration and help speed the realization of innovative, high-quality and highly efficient systems for our vehicles.”
Currently, 80-90% of all car innovations are based directly or indirectly on semiconductors. This is why Audi is developing a core competency in the semiconductor area with its Progressive SemiConductor Program, which is designed to rapidly make the latest semiconductor technologies available in cars while increasing reliability. The aim is to transfer progress in microelectronics more effectively to the car. A key part of the program involves being in direct contact with the semiconductor manufacturers and working with them on joint development.
ON Semiconductor joins CharIN ecosystems in developing EV charging standards