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IQE announces strategic collaboration with VisIC Technologies

September 24, 2023

  • Partnership to develop next-generation D-Mode GaN Power Devices

  • GaN Power 200mm (8″) epiwafers for EV applications

IQE plc, a semiconductor material/wafer manufacturer, announced it will collaborate with VisIC Technologies, a GaN manufacturer, to develop reliability gallium nitride D-Mode (D-Mode GaN) power products for EV inverters.

Together they plan to develop 200mm (8”) D-Mode GaN power epiwafers that will be developed at IQE’s UK facilities, with the aim to accelerate GaN-on-Silicon tech in EVs, to increase reliability, reduce power consumption, and enhance performance.

The collaboration marks another important milestone in IQE’s strategy of diversification into the high-growth Power market, first announced at its 2022 Capital Markets Day. IQE sees significant opportunities in the GaN Power epiwafer market in particular, which is forecast to reach a $632m value by 2027*.

Americo Lemos, Chief Executive Officer of IQE, commented:

“We are pleased to announce this collaboration with VisIC Technologies to develop GaN power technologies for use in electric vehicles. Our combined expertise in the field makes this an ideal partnership. This is another sign of the progress we are making in our diversification strategy, as we look to capture the significant growth opportunities in the GaN automotive power market, which is vital in supporting the transition to electric vehicles.”

Dr Tamara Baksht, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of VisIC Technologies, added:

“We believe that teaming up with IQE is a pivotal step towards reshaping the EV industry. Their track record of delivery in the sector and technological leadership means they are ideally placed for us to collaborate with to develop next-generation technology to power the electric vehicle revolution. Our D-Mode D3GAN technology has the potential to transform electric vehicles, making them more efficient, reliable, and sustainable. Together, we are poised to create a brighter and greener future for transportation. The co-operation brings higher availability of ground-breaking technology for GaN-on-Silicon and paves the way for a resilient supply chain to serve the automotive industry.”