Hyundai, Kia partner with Infineon on power semiconductors

Hyundai Motor and Kia will partially use Infineon's power semiconductors in their electric and hybrid vehicles until 2030 in the Korean carmakers' bid to secure a stable supply chain.

From left, Jason Chae, vice president of the Semicon Strategy Group at Hyundai Motor, Kim Heung-soo, executive vice president at Hyundai Motor Group, Peter Schiefer, president of Infineon's automotive division and Peter Schaefer, executive vice president of sales, marketing and distribution of Infineon's automotive division. [HYUNDAI MOTOR GROUP]

Hyundai Motor and Kia will partially use Infineon's power semiconductors in their electric and hybrid vehicles until 2030 in the Korean carmakers' bid to secure a stable supply chain.

The two parties signed the partnership on Wednesday for a multiyear supply of silicon carbide and silicon power semiconductors by Infineon. The partnership will also extend to joint research on enhancing the electric power of Hyundai and Kia's future eco-friendly models.

Infineon Technologies is a leading auto chip company based in Munich, Germany and it has been doing business with Hyundai Motor since the early 2000s by supplying sensor chips. The power chip supply commenced in the mid-2000s.

A power semiconductor is a core component for electric vehicles that converts and controls the electricity of a car to elongate the battery life.

“Infineon stands as a valued strategic partner, boasting steadfast production capabilities and distinct technological prowess within the power semiconductor market,” said Kim Heung-soo, executive vice president at Hyundai Motor Group.

“This partnership not only empowers Hyundai Motor and Kia to stabilize its semiconductor supply but also positions us to solidify our leadership in the global EV market, underpinned by our competitive product lineups.”

BY JIN EUN-SOO [jin.eunsoo@joongang.co.kr]