Wide-Bandgap Semiconductors Market to Surge for Electric Vehicles and Charging Infrastructure

The market for wide-bandgap (WBG) semiconductors, primarily silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN), is poised for exponential growth in the electric vehicle and EV supply equipment sectors, reaching a staggering $37.1 billion by 2032, according to Guidehouse Insights.

Governments worldwide are taking decisive measures by implementing stringent regulations aimed at reducing carbon emissions and encouraging the widespread adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs). Simultaneously, automotive manufacturers are making substantial commitments to scale up EV production, thereby intensifying the demand for Wide-Bandgap (WBG) semiconductors.

Silicon Carbide (SiC) and Gallium Nitride (GaN) stand out by offering superior properties in comparison to traditional silicon-based semiconductors, rendering them particularly well-suited for EV applications. Their attributes, including higher breakdown voltage, lower switching losses, and improved thermal conductivity, collectively pave the way for the development of more efficient and compact EV components.

As the EV market experiences growth, a parallel expansion unfolds in the realm of EV charging infrastructure. This infrastructure surge is crucial to supporting the increasing prevalence of EVs. In this context, Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) benefits significantly from the integration of WBG semiconductors. These advanced semiconductors prove instrumental in handling higher power levels and reducing charging times, further enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of EV charging stations.

Wide-Bandgap (WBG) semiconductors are increasingly integrated into various components of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE). They play a crucial role in Main Traction Inverters, where these inverters transform the direct current (DC) electricity sourced from the battery pack into alternating current (AC) power essential for propelling the electric motor. WBG semiconductors facilitate more efficient and potent inverters, thereby enhancing the overall range and performance of EVs.

Additionally, WBG semiconductors contribute to the optimization of Onboard Chargers, responsible for converting AC electricity from the grid into DC electricity for charging the EV battery. Their integration results in more compact and efficient onboard chargers, consequently reducing charging times and extending the lifespan of the battery.

In the realm of EV technology, WBG semiconductors are instrumental in the development of DC-DC Converters. These converters adjust the voltage of the DC power supply to meet the specific requirements of diverse EV components. The inclusion of WBG semiconductors in these converters ensures higher efficiency and reliability, thereby enhancing the overall performance of the EV system.

Moreover, WBG semiconductors find application in Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) components, including power modules, switches, and rectifiers. Their incorporation contributes to the creation of smaller, more efficient, and faster charging stations, further advancing the capabilities of EV infrastructure.

WBG semiconductors are anticipated to a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency and performance of EVs resulting in extended driving ranges, quicker charging times, and a notable reduction in energy consumption. Moreover, the maturation of WBG semiconductor technology, coupled with a decline in production costs, is expected to lead to an overall reduction in the costs associated with EVs. This downward cost trend holds the promise of rendering EVs more economically accessible for a broader consumer base.

The synergy of improved performance and increased affordability, facilitated by WBG semiconductors, is forecasted to accelerate the widespread adoption of EVs. Currently, this acceleration in adoption rates stands to contribute significantly to the future of transportation characterized by increased sustainability. Furthermore, the growing demand for EVs is projected to be a driving force behind the expansion of Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE) infrastructure.