Schaeffler and onsemi Collaborate on Next-Generation SiC-Based Dual Inverter for Electrified Pickup Platforms

Thomas Stierle, CEO E-Mobility Schaeffler (left) and Hassane El-Khoury, CEO at onsemi. (Image: Schaeffler)

(IN BRIEF) Schaeffler has secured a major contract to supply dual inverters for a new plug-in hybrid pickup truck platform in North America, marking a significant expansion of its E-Mobility business. The inverter, developed at its Deer Park, Illinois site, integrates onsemi’s silicon carbide (SiC) technology to improve electric drive efficiency and range. With production expected to begin in late 2027 and total volumes nearing one million units, the system will control both auxiliary electric drives and traction motors exceeding 200 kW. The collaboration strengthens Schaeffler’s position in North America’s hybrid market and showcases its growing capabilities in high-performance inverter solutions.

(PRESS RELEASE) HERZOGENAURACH, 7-Nov-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Schaeffler has taken another strategic step in advancing its electrification portfolio, announcing a significant order for a dual inverter designed for a new generation of plug-in hybrid pickup trucks aimed at the North American market. The dual inverter, which incorporates onsemi’s high-efficiency silicon carbide (SiC) technology, will manage both the electric drive for auxiliary units and serve as a traction inverter powering an electric motor exceeding 200 kW.

Developed at Schaeffler’s Deer Park, Illinois facility, the innovative inverter system represents a major leap in localized engineering capability and technological expertise. The contract covers a production volume of nearly one million units across the lifecycle of the agreement — highlighting Schaeffler’s growing leadership in inverter technology and the company’s strengthening foothold in the North American electrification space. Production is scheduled to begin by the end of 2027.

“This order underscores the exceptional capabilities of our inverter specialists in Deer Park,” said Thomas Stierle, CEO of E-Mobility at Schaeffler. “They successfully developed this highly advanced dual inverter within an ambitious timeframe, meeting the stringent requirements of our OEM partner. We’re proud to deliver this cutting-edge solution for the next generation of plug-in hybrid pickup trucks.”

Schaeffler dual inverter for use in two vehicle platforms in North America. (Image: Schaeffler)

The dual inverter addresses diverse functional demands within the vehicle’s powertrain. One inverter controls the starter-generator integrated into the belt drive of the internal combustion engine — using conventional insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) — while the second inverter, leveraging onsemi’s advanced EliteSiC MOSFETs, powers the traction motor. The latter achieves exceptional switching speeds and minimal energy losses, resulting in enhanced vehicle performance and an extended electric driving range.

“Through our collaboration with Schaeffler, we are redefining what’s possible for plug-in hybrid platforms,” added Hassane El-Khoury, CEO of onsemi. “Our EliteSiC technology provides the efficiency and performance needed to create vehicles that are more powerful, more sustainable, and capable of delivering longer electric-only driving ranges.”

The development of the dual inverter presented unique challenges, including complex efficiency and spatial design requirements specific to hybrid powertrains. Yet, through its engineering capabilities and close collaboration with OEM partners, Schaeffler has successfully delivered a compact, efficient system optimized for performance and scalability.

This project reinforces Schaeffler’s commitment to electrified mobility and its mission to advance hybrid and electric powertrain technologies globally. By combining semiconductor innovation with power electronics expertise, the company continues to shape the evolution of sustainable automotive solutions tailored for diverse markets.

Schaeffler Group – We pioneer motion: The Schaeffler Group has been driving forward groundbreaking inventions and developments in the field of motion technology for over 75 years. With innovative technologies, products, and services for electric mobility, CO₂-efficient drives, chassis solutions and renewable energies, the company is a reliable partner for making motion more efficient, intelligent, and sustainable – over the entire life cycle. Schaeffler describes its comprehensive range of products and services by means of eight product families: From bearing solutions and all types of linear guidance systems through to repair and monitoring services. Schaeffler is with around 110,000 employees and more than 250 locations in 55 countries, one of the world’s largest family-owned companies and one of Germany’s most innovative companies.

Media contact:

Theresa Kronthaler
Head of Communications Division E-Mobility, Schaeffler
E-Mail: Theresa.kronthaler@vitesco.com

Desiree Balk
Communications E-Mobility, Schaeffler
Tel.: +49 941 20314970
E-Mail: desiree.balk@vitesco.com

SOURCE: Schaeffler AG