Image: NioAccording to both companies, the collaboration has been ongoing for several years. It is now being strengthened to support the development of Nio’s next-generation EV platforms. onsemi’s chip technology will play a key role in upgrading the system architecture of future Nio vehicles to 900 volts, which is expected to enhance range, charging speeds, and overall performance.The collaboration focuses on onsemi’s EliteSiC-M3e technology, which Volkswagen is also using for its SSP platform. This system represents a new generation of MOSFETs based on silicon carbide (SiC), designed to improve switching performance in EVs and reduce energy losses. “These advances translate into higher system output, improved thermal performance, and increased overall drivetrain efficiency,” onsemi emphasises. The new technology is being integrated into Nio’s latest flagship SUV, the ES9, currently on display at Auto China.“The expanded collaboration builds on a longstanding partnership, which began with onsemi’s EliteSiC technology supporting NIO’s 400V platforms and has evolved into a strategic, system-level alignment,” the US chip manufacturer highlighted. The partnership reflects a broader trend in the automotive industry, characterised by closer collaboration between car manufacturers and semiconductor companies.Hassane El-Khoury, President and CEO of onsemi, said: “Electrification is entering a new phase where system efficiency and scalability are paramount. Our expanded collaboration with NIO demonstrates how deep engineering alignment and aligned technology roadmaps can accelerate the transition to high-voltage architectures. With our EliteSiC technology, we are enabling higher performance, improved efficiency, and faster time-to-market for next-generation EV platforms.”Alan Zeng, CEO of XPT, Nio’s powertrain division, states: “NIO has consistently pushed the boundaries of intelligent electric mobility. Our collaboration with onsemi has evolved alongside our technology roadmap—from early 400V systems to today’s 900V platforms. The performance and reliability of onsemi’s EliteSiC technology, combined with strong technical collaboration, are helping us deliver more efficient, high-performance vehicles to our customers worldwide.”Interestingly, onsemi initially made its name with power semiconductors for power supplies. As an early supplier to Tesla, the company has also experienced significant growth in SiC chips for the automotive sector and now supplies, alongside Nio and VW, companies such as BMW, BYD, the Hyundai Motor Group, and Mercedes-Benz. It also serves suppliers like Bosch, Continental, ZF, and Vitesco.onsemi.com