McLaren Applied announces SiC-based inverter
British motorsport specialist is advancing closer to full production of an 800V SiC inverter for wider automotive market
McLaren Applied has revealed that it is getting close to full production of an 800V inverter based on SiC technology. It made its public debut at the Future Propulsion Conference 2022, at the UK’s National Motorcycle Museum.
McLaren Applied has been pushing the boundaries of inverter technology for over ten years, through high-performance automotive and motorsport applications, culminating in this fifth-generation inverter that takes cutting-edge development from Formula 1 and optimises the technology for the wider automotive market.
Nick Fry, non-executive chairman at McLaren Applied comments: “The launch of the IPG5 inverter is a huge milestone for McLaren Applied. We’re delighted to advance to the next stage of development and to begin delivering prototypes to customers. Across the industry, we’re seeing rapid progression of technology – if OEMs want to remain competitive and deliver vehicles with greater ranges, faster charging times and better acceleration, they must make the transition to an 800V SiC architecture.”
McClaren says its SiC-based inverter allows OEMs to develop EVs with greater ranges, faster charging times and better acceleration, at a comparable cost with improved sustainability benefits.
The IPG5 i800V SiC inverter supports ultra-fast charging and is said to delivers class-leading powertrain efficiency. IPG5 can power electric motors to over 350 kW peak, 250 kW continuous, at a weight and volume of 5.5kg and 3.79L respectively.
As part of the announcement McLaren Applied unveiled a collaboration with BAK Motors, the Swiss-based owner of luxury car brand Kincsem. Under the terms of the deal, McLaren Applied will develop and supply drivetrain components, including motors and the IPG5 800V SiC inverter for the Kincsem Hyper GT and SUV – the world’s first nano-photonic light activated solid-state hydrogen hybrid hyper-car.
