Global automaker to use Ideal Power’s solid-state contactors in its EVs

Texas-headquartered power conversion technology company Ideal Power, developer of the B-TRAN bidirectional semiconductor power switch, is collaborating with its third global automaker on the use of B-TRAN-enabled contactors to potentially replace electromechanical contactors in the automaker’s EVs.

Contactors play a critical role in isolating the battery, inverter and onboard charger to ensure safety when an EV is off or being serviced, acting as high-voltage cutoff switches. Solid-state B-TRAN-enabled contactors have no physical contacts subject to wear and are faster-acting than electromechanical ones. They eliminate arcing, improve safety and reliability, and provide safety diagnostics and programmable settings for trip and current limits. They are also expected to cost less in EV applications.

“Solid-state contactors in EVs are an emerging market and our technology is potentially enabling for this application due to its very low conduction losses and inherent bidirectionality,” said Dan Brdar, President and CEO of Ideal Power.

Source: Ideal Power