The adoption of electric vehicles is accelerating, but charging efficiency and range have always been the focus of consumer attention. Recently, Changan Automobile introduced an innovative technology that could change that. Changan Automobile has partnered with Navitas Semiconductor to launch the world's first gallium nitride (GaN)-based on-board charger (OBC). This technology not only improves charging efficiency, but also extends the range of electric vehicles, bringing new hope for the future development of electric vehicles.
GaN is a wide bandgap semiconductor material with higher electron mobility and lower electrical resistance than traditional silicon-based semiconductors. This means that GaN devices can operate at higher voltages and frequencies while reducing energy loss. Put simply, GaN technology can make electronic devices smaller, lighter, and more efficient.
Changan Automobile's innovation
Changan Automobile has integrated GaN-based OBC technology in its newly launched Qiyuan E07 electric vehicle. Not only is the EV equipped with a high-performance battery and motor, but it also features advanced lidar and cameras to provide advanced driver assistance features. In addition, the Kaizen E07 is equipped with satellite connectivity in low Earth orbit to provide users with continuous internet access.
Advantages of GaN OBC:
Changan Automobile claims that its GaN-based OBC achieves 96% efficiency when charging and discharging, with a power density of 6 kilowatts per liter. This means that GaN OBC can provide more power in the same volume, resulting in faster charging. In addition, the high efficiency of GaN technology can also extend the range of electric vehicles, which Changan Automobile expects will increase the service life of vehicles by about 10,000 kilometers.
Pictured: Changan Automobile launched the world's first gallium nitride-based on-board charger
Cost-effective
In addition to the technical advantages, GaN OBC also brings significant cost benefits. Changan Automobile expects that vehicles using GaN technology can reduce charging costs by 15% to 20% over their lifetime compared to traditional OBC solutions. This is a huge attraction for consumers as it not only improves the performance of the vehicle but also reduces the cost of ownership.
The future of GaN technology
The application of GaN technology in electric vehicles is gradually gaining popularity. As manufacturers continue to seek to improve energy efficiency and the performance of charging infrastructure, GaN technology is expected to play a more important role in the design of next-generation electric vehicles. The high efficiency and small size of GaN devices make them an ideal solution, especially in applications that require high power density and fast charging.
The current state and challenges of EV charging
The charging time of an electric vehicle depends not only on the roadside charging facilities, but also on the OBC capability of the vehicle. In recent years, curbside charging facilities have evolved from slow Level 1 (3.3 kW) to ultra-fast DC chargers (up to 350 kW). However, efficient charging also requires the OBC to convert the alternating current to high-voltage direct current so that it can be stored in the battery.
Conclusion
The launch of GaN-based OBC technology by Changan Automobile is an important milestone in the electric vehicle industry. This technology not only improves charging efficiency, but also extends the vehicle's range and reduces the cost of use. With the continuous development and popularization of GaN technology, we can believe that future electric vehicles will be more efficient and environmentally friendly, making greater contributions to global sustainable development.
