Since the invention and dominance of the combustion engine, the transport industry has become one of the most polluting industries. Public pressure on the automotive industry has forced car manufacturers to reinvent themselves. For nearly two decades, they have been relentlessly pursuing more sustainable ways to power their vehicles.
This has not been an easy task, given that fuel engines have dominated for more than 100 years. The shift to new technology and infrastructure is costing billions of euros globally. It is clear that electric vehicles are here to stay – and perhaps save the planet. However, this requires the development of advanced battery and power technology.
Demands of the booming electric vehicle sector
Electric vehicle sales have been growing rapidly year by year. By 2030, the number of electric vehicles is expected to reach 240 to 380 million, depending on various scenarios. This rise is largely fueled by the push towards sustainable transportation solutions, urbanization trends, and rising consumer demand for eco-friendly vehicles.
As the EV market expands, the demand for advanced battery and power technologies becomes critical. The performance, range, and efficiency of EVs heavily depend on the quality and innovation of battery systems. Key needs include the development of batteries with higher energy densities, faster charging capabilities, longer lifespans, and lower costs. Advancements in power electronics are expected to enhance the overall efficiency and reliability of electric powertrains.
The growing demand for durability, efficiency, and reliability in advanced electric vehicle power systems is driving the need for superior capacitor films.
“New generation of semiconductors is taking place in the future of power electronics. They create a significantly more challenging environment for the capacitors. The expectation is that the operating conditions for capacitors are more challenging in all markets – not only in e-mobility,” R&D director Vladimír Monček at Terichem Tervakoski, a.s. explains.
Tervakoski Film ECU meets the real need
At Tervakoski Films Group, our goal is to enhance the performance of demanding dielectric films to meet both current and future needs. Our metallized and base films for capacitors are designed to have a long lifetime and perform excellently under high electrical and thermal stresses.
However, the targets set by car manufacturers are challenging to achieve with standard films. This is why we have developed an entirely new product.
Tervakoski Film ECU is a capacitor film that unleashes the full potential of the new generation of power semiconductors. It offers superior electrical properties even at 135 °C. Its exceptional heat resistance enables the utilization of new power semiconductors in the car onboard systems – without any compromises.
“Tervakoski Film ECU supports the rise of green technologies by advancing the development of more energy-efficient and high-performing power systems,” states Vlado Moncek.
Developed in cooperation with our clients and tested extensively for over 200,000 hours, Tervakoski Film ECU is ready to meet the demands of the evolving market.
“We are constantly preparing for the market’s evolution, including in our production capabilities. Our new LISIM production line strengthens our position, ensuring we are ready to meet the demand,” Moncek continues.
Superior properties at high temperatures
The ECU film’s manufacturing material, Stelora™, is produced using renewable feedstock. The unique properties of Stelora™ and our high-quality manufacturing process give Tervakoski Film ECU its advanced performance.
Currently, Tervakoski Film ECU is going through a qualification test round with customers.
“We can test capacitors from low to ultra-high temperatures. The final stage, testing the maximum limits with customers, is ongoing. They provide us with constant feedback, and we offer advice, creating a very open and strong bond of communication,” explains Rastislav Veles, R&D manager at Terichem Tervakoski, a.s.
Once the qualification tests are complete, the commercial product will be ready for market launch. While the primary application and demand in the automotive sector are well-established, the coming years will reveal how other industries respond and adopt the product.