The two companies aim to enable the next generation of mobility through a partnership that includes the creation of a joint innovation lab. drive Advances in SiC systems and devices for mobility, industrial and energy applications.
The partnership also includes a major investment by ZF, “Leading and Largest 200mm Silicon Carbide Device Factory in Ensdorf, Germany”.
However, both the joint innovation lab and Wolfspeed’s device fab are planned as part of the Key Project of Common European Interest on the Framework for Microelectronics and Communication Technologies (IPCEI) and have received state aid approval from the European Commission. depends on
In a press release, the companies said the R&D center will focus on innovation in SiC systems and devices to meet the specific requirements of all mobility segments. This includes civil, commercial, agricultural, and industrial vehicles, but the company also targets the industrial and renewable energy markets.
In a separate press release, Wolfspeed detailed plans to build a fully automated 200 mm wafer fabrication plant in Saarland, Germany. This is the company’s first European fab.
ZF will support this new construction by making a significant financial commitment in the hundreds of millions of dollars in exchange for Wolfspeed common stock. ZF will have a minority stake in the fab as part of this venture, while Wolfspeed will have full control over the operations and management of the new fab.
Construction on the 35-acre (14-hectare) site is expected to begin in the first half of 2023.
“ZF is a strong partner, bringing industry-leading experience in scaling components for electric mobility and the aptitude to accelerate innovation in silicon carbide systems and power devices. We are confident that we will be able to increase our global influence and support the efforts of many industries towards greater sustainability and efficiency.”
The company says the fab will be designed to: “Innovative manufacturing process” To produce next-generation SiC devices. Once fully operational, Fab plans to employ more than 600 of her people.
