STMicroelectronics, IMECAS, and EPOCH plan to develop a battery controller using the most advanced Smart Power (BCD) technology and the SPC5x automotive microcontrollers from ST. To be defined in close cooperation with Chinese battery makers and carmakers, the solution aims to meet the market requirements for performance, quality, and reliability.

China is the largest NEV market in the world, with more than 500,000 NEVs sold in 2016. Moreover, the growth planned and foreseen in the future is dramatic, poised to reach two million NEVs in 2020. Battery-monitoring systems, along with related key technologies, including Silicon Carbide (SiC) for traction and charging, play an important role in securing the safe operation of the battery and vehicle while providing crucial information to drivers.

"Through the cooperation with IMECAS and EPOCH, ST is ready to contribute its technologies, products, and experience to China's transition towards a greener and safer automotive industry. Our key components for all the main automotive applications, and especially New Energy Vehicles that include power technologies, smart drivers, microcontrollers, and control and connectivity solutions, will enable IMECAS and EPOCH to address the ambitious targets of the China 2025 program for the automotive industry," said Marco Monti, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Automotive and Discrete Group, STMicroelectronics.