Samsung Electro-Mechanics introduces 1000–1500 V MLCCs for EV inverter and OBC designs

Samsung Electro-Mechanics has commenced mass production of a new range of ultra-high-voltage multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) designed specifically for electric vehicle (EV) applications. These capacitors, rated between 1000 V and 1500 V, expand the company’s existing C0G and X8G temperature-stable series to meet the demands of 800 V EV inverter systems and next-generation onboard chargers (OBCs). The four new MLCC models all share a compact 1210 package size and offer capacitance values ranging from 1.2 nF at 1500 V to 33 nF at 1000 V, with exceptional temperature stability across a wide operating range. The capacitors are intended primarily for use in resonant tank circuits within EV charging systems, particularly those employing CLLC topology, as well as snubber capacitors that mitigate switching transients in inverter power modules. As OBC output power requirements exceed 22 kW, the need for components capable of handling higher voltages without compromising power density or reliability becomes critical. The C0G and X8G dielectrics employed in these MLCCs ensure minimal capacitance drift with temperature fluctuations, a crucial factor in maintaining resonant frequency stability and overall system efficiency. Samsung Electro-Mechanics has incorporated fail-safe designations into three of the four capacitor models, enhancing their reliability in demanding automotive environments. The company is also providing technical support and samples to assist customers in integrating these components into bespoke designs, signalling a commitment to collaboration with EV manufacturers and system designers. The introduction of these capacitors aligns with the broader industry shift towards higher-voltage powertrain architectures, which require components that can sustain performance under increased electrical stress. By extending the temperature-stable dielectric technology to the 1000–1500 V range, Samsung Electro-Mechanics addresses a key challenge in the development of 800 V EV platforms. This innovation supports the advancement of more efficient and compact inverter and charging systems, potentially accelerating the adoption of higher-voltage architectures in electric vehicles. With mass production underway, these MLCCs are poised to become integral components in the next generation of EV power electronics.