Now, they have also embarked on the development of automotive components using GaN power semiconductors, with the aim of creating innovative automotive components for next-generation electric vehicles.

GaN is attracting attention as a next-generation material for power semiconductors. Compared to conventional silicon (Si) power semiconductors, GaN can reduce power conversion losses and contribute to component miniaturization through high-frequency operation.

Both companies will collaborate to transform these strengths into a comprehensive vehicle package with innovative weight reduction and design solutions. Mazda and ROHM aim to bring the concept to fruition and present a demonstration model in fiscal year 2025, with practical implementation planned for fiscal year 2027.

“As the shift to electrification accelerates in pursuit of carbon neutrality, we are delighted to collaborate with ROHM, which aims to create a sustainable mobility society with its extraordinary semiconductor technology and advanced systems solution capabilities, in the development and production of automotive components for electric vehicles,” said Ichiro Hirose, director, senior executive director, and chief technology officer of Mazda. “We are excited to work together to create a new value chain that directly connects semiconductor devices and cars. Through collaboration with partners who share our vision, Mazda will continue to offer products imbued with the ‘joy of driving’ that allows customers to truly enjoy driving, even in electric vehicles.”.

“We are delighted to collaborate with Mazda, which pursues the ‘joy of driving,’ in the development of automotive components for electric vehicles,” said Katsumi Azuma, ROHM Board Member and Senior Executive Director. “ROHM’s EcoGaN™, capable of operating at high frequencies, and the control IC that maximizes its performance are key to miniaturization and energy savings. To implement this in society, collaboration with a wide range of companies is essential, and we have established several partnerships for the development and mass production of GaN. By collaborating with Mazda, which aims to create ‘cars that coexist sustainably with the earth and society,’ we will gain a deeper understanding of the requirements for GaN from the perspective of application and final product development, contributing to the diffusion of GaN power semiconductors and the creation of a sustainable mobility society.”.

EcoGaN™ is a trademark or registered trademark of ROHM Co., Ltd.

*The titles mentioned are effective from March 27, 2025.