QPT, a specialist in GaN-based electric motor controls, has been awarded a grant to lead a new project named VERDE, aimed at developing a high-frequency, 400 V/60 kW GaN inverter demonstrator for the automotive industry. The initiative is funded by the UK’s Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC) as part of its efforts to accelerate early-stage technologies to market, supporting the transition to net-zero automotive solutions. RAM Innovations Ltd is partnering with QPT on this project.
The new demonstrator will feature high-frequency switching of up to 1 MHz, which is expected to significantly reduce waste, weight, and power costs in electric vehicle (EV) drive systems. A key feature of QPT's technology is its unique pure sine wave output, designed to minimize harshness, noise, and vibration, thereby improving reliability and lowering power consumption.
According to Precedence Research, the global traction inverter market for EVs was valued at $17.93 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to reach around $73.08 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.90%. Given that electric motors currently consume nearly half of the world’s electricity, QPT's innovative technology has the potential to reduce electricity usage by 10%, significantly cutting down CO2 emissions.
Rupert Baines, CEO of QPT, stated: "Our system technology enables GaN to be used for high-power, high-performance applications, overcoming the thermal and EMI challenges that have historically limited its use in automotive. We are already in discussions with automotive companies interested in partnering with us to leapfrog the market, currently focused on SiC and transition to GaN-based inverters. Reducing waste in both the inverter and the motor increases range or reduces battery requirements while also simplifying the cooling system, further cutting weight. This is a game changer for the EV industry."
Peter Green, CEO of RAM Innovations Ltd, emphasized the significance of the project: "We are thrilled to collaborate on this initiative, which will position the UK at the forefront of EV technology development. The Project will create a demonstrator that will be showcased at the Cenex Expo at UTAC Millbrook, UK, in September 2025, where the world’s leading EV companies can witness the technological advancements made. The APC investment will expedite the market launch of this technology by at least two years."
Ian Stacey, VP of Engineering and Operations at QPT, and the VERDE project leader, added: "VERDE is part of Innovate UK’s initiative to support pioneering British innovations, ensuring the UK plays a major role in the technologies driving the global economy. This project will not only stimulate research and development but is also expected to generate around 70 UK manufacturing jobs by 2032 as the technology transitions to commercial products. As the demand for electric motors rises to meet net-zero targets, achieving maximum efficiency is essential. This project represents a significant step forward in adopting GaN and replacing traditional silicon and SiC solutions."