DC-DC converters for 800V EVs with 48V zones

Oct 16, 2024

Vicor has released three automotive-grade power modules for 48V electric vehicles: a bidirectional 2.5kW 800V to-from 48V converter, a 2kW 48V to 12V regulator and a 2.5kW 48V to 48V regulator.

The unregulated fixed-ratio 2.5kW isolated bi-directional 800V to-from 48V dc-dc converter is a member of the BCM6135 family, with a power density of 158kW/litre according to the company. There are also 400V members of the family.

“The bidirectional rapid current transient response rate of 8MA/s allows the BCM6135 to replace a 25lb 48V battery, serving as a virtual 48V battery,” said Vicor.

Pre-charging high-voltage inverters from a low-voltage battery is another potential application.

DCM3735 is the 2kW 48V (35 to 58V) input non-isolated converter that produces a regulated 12V output, trimmable across 8 to 16V, measuring 36.6 x 35.4 x 7.4mm.

Claimed power density is 300kW/litre, and the company said: “DCM3735 can be mounted remotely to create a local 12V supply in a vehicle zone, for example on the right-hand side.

PRM3735 is a non-isolated 2.5kW dc-dc that converts an input between 31 and 58V to a regulated output between 36 and 54V. Electronics Weekly has requested further details.

It measures 36.6 x 35.4 x 7.4mm.