Collaboration Extension and Production Timeline
On August 7, 2026, BorgWarner announced an agreement to extend multiple high-volume high-voltage inverter programs with a major European automaker. The extension covers updated inverter designs for plug-in hybrid and 800V battery-electric vehicle applications, with production scheduled to begin in 2029. BorgWarner stated that this extension builds on the long-standing power electronics partnership between the two companies, further solidifying its leading position in the high-voltage automotive inverter market.
Isabelle McKenzie, President and General Manager of BorgWarner PowerDrive Systems, noted that the extension demonstrates the company’s strengths in power electronics technology, in-house expertise, and customer focus. She emphasized that by evolving inverter technology generation by generation, BorgWarner not only meets automakers’ demands for high-performance solutions but also continues to build long-term partnerships with leading global OEMs.
Technical Features of the Plug-In Hybrid Inverter
For plug-in hybrid vehicles, BorgWarner will supply a high-voltage inverter based on its proprietary Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) technology. The company highlighted that ASIC technology has been proven in its 800V inverter product line, offering high reliability and maturity. The new design is fully compatible with the automaker’s latest vehicle operating system, ensuring seamless system integration and efficiency.
BorgWarner further explained that the application of ASIC technology not only enhances inverter performance but also simplifies the integration process for automakers within their vehicle electronic architectures. The maturity and compatibility of this technology were key factors in securing the program extension. The company stated that the design effectively reduces vehicle development complexity and shortens time to market.
Innovative Design of the 800V Battery-Electric Vehicle Inverter
For 800V battery-electric vehicle applications, BorgWarner has adopted a new generation of its proprietary Viper silicon carbide (SiC) power switches and a dual-sided-cooled power module. Compared to traditional silicon-based components, silicon carbide offers lower conduction losses and higher junction temperature tolerance, significantly improving the inverter’s energy conversion efficiency.
