Power Integrations Unveils Revolutionary GaN Reference Design Kit to Power the Next Generation of Solar Race Cars

The world of solar racing demands nothing less than absolute peak performance. Every watt, every gram, and every cubic centimeter counts. That's why the latest announcement from Power Integrations is set to electrify the track: a groundbreaking reference design kit (RDK-768) engineered specifically for the rigorous demands of solar-powered vehicles, leveraging their cutting-edge high-efficiency Gallium Nitride (GaN) integrated circuits.

This innovative RDK-768 delivers a complete, ultra-compact 400-watt battery charger design, perfectly suited for the advanced battery systems found in solar race cars.

At its heart lies Power Integrations' renowned InnoSwitch3-AQ isolated flyback switcher ICs, fortified with their proprietary PowiGaN technology. This powerful combination isn't just about charging; it's about intelligent, super-efficient energy transfer.

One of the most critical aspects for any solar race team is efficiency, and the RDK-768 doesn't disappoint.

It boasts an astonishing peak efficiency of over 95%, meaning less energy is wasted as heat and more power is directed straight into the battery. This directly translates to faster charging times and, crucially, lighter, smaller thermal management systems, freeing up precious weight and space – factors that can make or break a race.

Thorsten Schmidt, Senior Director of Marketing at Power Integrations, eloquently captures the essence of this innovation: "Solar race cars operate in extremely constrained environments where high efficiency, low weight, and compact size are paramount.

The RDK-768 tackles these challenges head-on, providing designers with a robust, automotive-grade solution that delivers unparalleled performance. It's a game-changer for teams looking to optimize their power systems."

Beyond its impressive efficiency, the RDK-768 features a very low component count, further simplifying designs and enhancing reliability.

Its robust build incorporates automotive-qualified components, ensuring durability under the harsh conditions of competitive racing. The kit also supports a wide input voltage range, from 90 VDC to 425 VDC, and includes an active power factor correction (PFC) front end, making it adaptable and versatile.

Whether a team uses a 12V or 24V battery system, this charger kit is designed to seamlessly integrate.

This release underscores Power Integrations' commitment to advancing sustainable technology. By providing such a high-performance, compact, and reliable charging solution, they are not only empowering solar race teams to push the boundaries of electric vehicle technology but also paving the way for future innovations in other high-efficiency, space-constrained applications across the automotive sector and beyond.

The RDK-768 isn't just a product; it's a leap forward in the quest for cleaner, more efficient power.