Ideal Power, the developer of the B-TRAN bidirectional semiconductor power switch, is collaborating with a third global automaker on the use of B-TRAN-enabled contactors potentially to replace electromechanical contactors in its electric vehicles (EVs).

Contactors serve as cutoff switches for high voltage applications in EVs. They play a critical role in isolating the battery, inverter, and onboard charger to ensure safety when the vehicle is off or being serviced. Contactors are bidirectional and there are typically 4 to 6 high-power contactors in every EV.

The high-power EV contactor market is forecasted to grow to more than $3.7 billion in 2025 and the company believes that, over time, solid-state contactors will potentially displace electromechanical contactors in half or more of this market.

Solid-state contactors provide several benefits over electromechanical contactors. They are much faster acting, thereby eliminating arcing and improving safety, and are more reliable as they do not include physical contacts subject to wear.

In addition, they provide programmable settings for trip and current limits as well as built-in safety diagnostics. Solid-state contactors are also expected to cost less than electromechanical contactors in EV applications.