Skyworks Solutions Inc. (NASDAQ: SWKS) unveiled its Si829x isolated safety gate driver platform for electric vehicle traction inverters at PCIM 2026 in Nuremberg, Germany. The company plans to begin production of the Si829x by the end of July 2026.

The Si829x incorporates Skyworks' ProVCD technology, which uses variable current drive instead of conventional voltage-mode gate drivers. According to the company, this approach reduces switching losses by up to 44% compared with voltage mode and provides precise 15 Amp 3-phase turn-on and turn-off current waveform control.

The platform is designed for ISO 26262 functional safety standards and suitable for systems rated up to ASIL D. It includes diagnostic fault coverage, safety mechanisms with power-up self-checks, and certified isolation technology.

The gate driver supports both silicon carbide FETs and IGBTs within a single platform and includes an integrated VPOS regulator that provides bipolar gate drive voltages. This eliminates the need for an external negative gate bias supply.

"As EV platforms scale globally, automakers face increasing pressure to improve efficiency and integrate advanced features while also lowering system cost," said Mario Battello, vice president of product line management at Skyworks. "The Si829x introduces a new class of gate driver technology that can enable all of these."

The platform allows engineers to adjust gate drive parameters through software rather than fixed hardware components. This supports design reuse across multiple vehicle platforms and provides compatibility across power semiconductor technologies.

Applications for the Si829x include battery electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, eTrucking, industrial motor drives, robotaxis and electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft.