十年磨一剑！丰田发布SiC插混车型

Core Viewpoint - Toyota has officially introduced the sixth generation RAV4, marking a significant milestone by incorporating Silicon Carbide (SiC) technology in its plug-in hybrid model, enhancing performance and efficiency [2][3][4]. Group 1: Introduction of SiC Technology - The new RAV4 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) features a power control unit (PCU) that utilizes SiC power semiconductors, resulting in an energy efficiency improvement of approximately 10% and a size reduction of up to 80% [4]. - This transition from IGBT to SiC in the hybrid system is a pivotal change for Toyota, as it addresses the limitations of IGBT technology, such as high switching losses and size constraints [8]. Group 2: Historical Context and Development - Toyota has been exploring SiC technology since 2015, testing it in various models, including the Prius and Mirai, to optimize its application in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles [8][10]. - The introduction of SiC in the new RAV4 is seen as a culmination of a decade-long effort to enhance hybrid vehicle performance [2][12]. Group 3: Market Impact and Sales Projections - Despite a projected 3.7% decrease in global sales for 2024, Toyota remains the world's largest automaker, with an expected total of 10.82 million vehicles sold [12]. - The demand for SiC technology is anticipated to rise significantly as Toyota's new RAV4 is expected to drive sales growth in plug-in hybrid vehicles, with a target of 209,000 units by the fiscal year 2026 [13][12]. Group 4: Industry Trends and Competitor Response - Other major automakers, including BYD and Nissan, are also adopting SiC technology in their plug-in hybrid models, indicating a broader industry shift towards SiC [16]. - The first quarter of 2023 saw approximately 80,000 sales of SiC-equipped hybrid vehicles, with expectations for significant growth in the coming years [18][20].