As the global population experiences rapid growth, more people around the world are moving from the countryside to the city. In addition to the inner-city challenges posed by the urbanization megatrend, there is also an increase in the average traveling distance. As a result, the challenges for train systems are also increasing. To meet these demands, Siemens Mobility and Infineon Technologies AG (FSE: IFX / OTCQX: IFNNY) have jointly developed new auxiliary converters to improve the efficiency of on-board power systems using power semiconductors based on silicon carbide (SiC).
- An Avenio vehicle equipped with SiC technology spent one year transporting passengers in Munich and covered 65,000 kilometers in the process
- Energy use was cut by 10 percent and motor noise was reduced as well
- Joint research project conducted as part of the European development and research program PINTA
Siemens Mobility and Stadtwerke München (SWM) successfully completed a one-year test of semiconductor technology based on silicon carbide (SiC) in an Avenio streetcar in Munich in August. They have now presented the results of their research. The study found that the motor noise produced by the vehicle fell sharply and that energy use declined as well during the trips that the tram made on Munich’s public-transportation rail network. The semiconductor technology was produced by Infineon Technologies. The tests were conducted as part of the European research and development project PINTA. By taking part in the trial, Siemens Mobility significantly contributed to efforts to integrate SiC power semiconductors into rail vehicles.