【文/观察者网 柳白】 安世荷兰与中国子公司的博弈仍在继续。路透社12月19日独家报道说，一份信件显示，安世中国已与本 土企业锁定硅晶圆供应，足以覆盖其某一类功率芯片在2026年的全部生产需求。此前，荷兰母公司已停 止向该中国业务实体供应晶圆。 分析人士认为，此举将确保安世中国能够继续生产绝缘栅双极晶体管（IGBT）功率芯片及模块。这类 芯片和模块是用于调节电动汽车及工业设备电流的核心开关器件。 报道称，尽管上月中荷在政府层面缓和了局势，但围绕安世半导体控制权的法律诉讼和内部博弈仍在持 续。安世中国和闻泰科技均发出警告，若无法达成长期解决方案，芯片供应中断的局面可能再度出现。 一位知情人士透露，安世中国已告知本土分销商，由于来自荷兰的晶圆供应短期内无望恢复，其位于中 国广东省东莞市工厂的晶圆库存已处于低位。 该知情人士表示，晶圆库存不足的问题已开始导致中国本土车企面临安世半导体芯片短缺，受影响的主 要是该公司的核心畅销产品——逻辑器件、晶体管和二极管。 日本本田汽车公司本周早些时候也表示，受芯片短缺影响，其在中国和日本的部分工厂将不得不临时停 产。 安世中国在信中称，鼎泰匠芯科技将为其供应12英寸车规级IGB ...

Core Insights - A research team from MIT, the University of Waterloo, and Samsung Electronics has developed a new method to increase transistor density on chips by stacking additional layers of transistors on existing circuits, which could significantly enhance chip performance and energy efficiency [2][4][5]. Group 1: New Manufacturing Method - The new method involves adding a layer of micro-switches on top of completed chips, similar to traditional chip stacking techniques, to increase the number of transistors integrated into a single chip [2]. - The research team utilized a 2-nanometer thick layer of amorphous indium oxide to construct additional transistors without damaging the sensitive front-end components during the manufacturing process [3][6]. Group 2: Energy Efficiency and Performance - This innovative approach allows for the integration of logic devices and memory components into a compact structure, reducing energy waste and improving computational speed [4][5]. - The new transistors exhibit a switching speed of just 10 nanoseconds, with significantly lower voltage requirements compared to existing devices, leading to reduced power consumption [6]. Group 3: Future Implications - The research indicates that if future processors can utilize both this new technology and traditional chip stacking methods, the limits of transistor density could be greatly surpassed, countering the notion that Moore's Law is reaching its end [3][4]. - The team aims to further integrate these backend transistors into single circuits and enhance their performance, exploring the physical properties of ferroelectric hafnium zirconium oxide for potential new applications [7].

Core Viewpoint - The semiconductor supply chain for the automotive industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation, shifting from an efficiency-first approach to prioritizing safety and controllability in response to recent chip shortages [1][21]. Group 1: Impact of Ansys Semiconductor Crisis - Ansys Semiconductor, as the largest supplier of basic semiconductor devices, holds approximately 40% of the global automotive discrete device market share, and its supply fluctuations have led to production cuts or temporary shutdowns for major automakers like Honda, Ford, Volkswagen, and Nissan [1][3]. - The crisis highlights the structural risks within the automotive chip supply chain, emphasizing the industry's demand for safety and reliability, which complicates the rapid replacement of suppliers [3][4]. Group 2: Changes in Automotive Chip Supply Chain Logic - The automotive industry has experienced its second major chip shortage in five years, with the previous shortage during the pandemic primarily caused by supply-demand imbalances [3][5]. - The current crisis has revealed that the global automotive chip inventory turnover days are generally below 40 days, significantly lower than the 60-day safety level, indicating that the industry's focus on low inventory is unsustainable in the face of supply fluctuations [4][5]. Group 3: Localization Strategies of International Chip Manufacturers - Major international automotive chip manufacturers, including Infineon, STMicroelectronics, NXP, and Texas Instruments, are accelerating their localization strategies in China to enhance supply chain stability [7][11]. - Infineon has launched a "local for local" strategy, aiming for localized production of various products by 2027, while NXP has established a dedicated China division to adapt to local market needs [7][8][9]. Group 4: Opportunities and Challenges for Domestic Chip Manufacturers - The restructuring of the automotive supply chain presents unprecedented opportunities for domestic chip manufacturers, with the localization rate of automotive chips in China expected to rise from less than 5% in 2020 to 20% by the end of 2024 [16][17]. - Despite the opportunities, domestic manufacturers face challenges such as high certification barriers, longer certification cycles, and reliance on foreign EDA tools, which can hinder their competitiveness [17][19]. Group 5: Future Trends in the Automotive Chip Industry - The automotive chip industry is expected to evolve towards a more resilient and diversified supply chain, balancing global and regional strategies, with a focus on local production and multi-source backup [21]. - The trend of "local for local" is becoming a collective action among global semiconductor companies, reflecting a recognition of the importance of the Chinese market and the need for supply chain security [14][12].

Core Insights - Nexperia's supply chain disruptions are impacting the global automotive industry, highlighting structural vulnerabilities that cannot be overlooked [1] - The semiconductor industry is heavily reliant on a few suppliers, and geopolitical tensions can quickly lead to production halts [1] - Yole Group emphasizes the strategic importance of disassembly analysis in understanding competitors' innovations and strategies in the semiconductor landscape [1] Group 1: Nexperia's Role in the Automotive Ecosystem - Nexperia plays a critical role in the automotive ecosystem, providing essential components such as diodes, transistors, and MOSFETs for vehicle control units and power electronics [1] - Since 2020, 75% of the 400 automotive systems analyzed by Yole Group contain at least one Nexperia component, particularly in ADAS, infotainment, telematics, and electrification controllers [2] - Nexperia's components account for 1% of the semiconductor electronic bill of materials (eBOM), but they are crucial for the manufacturing process [4] Group 2: Financial Impact and Customer Base - In 2024, Nexperia's revenue is projected to reach $2.06 billion, with over 50% derived from automotive applications [7] - The company's customer base includes major automotive manufacturers in Europe and the U.S., as well as some Asian manufacturers, indicating its widespread influence [7] - Nearly every automotive manufacturer utilizes Nexperia's products, often without their knowledge, underscoring the company's foundational role in the automotive semiconductor ecosystem [7] Group 3: Supply Chain Challenges and Lessons Learned - The automotive industry is currently relying on existing inventory to maintain production, but prolonged supply chain disruptions could lead to shutdowns within weeks due to low inventory levels [7] - The recent semiconductor crisis during the COVID-19 pandemic has made OEMs aware of their dependency on immediate semiconductor supply [8] - Although many of Nexperia's products are technically simple and can be substituted, the challenges lie in qualification, validation, and logistics, which require time [8] Group 4: Future Trends and Demand - The Nexperia situation coincides with a pivotal moment for automotive manufacturers, as the integration of electrification, digitalization, and artificial intelligence is driving unprecedented semiconductor demand [9]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant contributions of Tian Xiuqing, a pioneering figure in the establishment of Jiangyin Transistor Factory, which laid the foundation for Changdian Technology's current leadership in the semiconductor packaging and testing industry in China [2][19]. Group 1: Historical Context - In the late 1960s, Tian Xiuqing, then the Party Secretary of Jiangyin Changjiang Underwear Factory, recognized the instability of foreign trade orders and sought to pivot the factory's focus towards the emerging electronics industry, specifically transistors [5][6]. - The establishment of Jiangyin Transistor Factory was a response to the national call for developing the electronic industry, marking a significant shift from garment manufacturing to high-tech production [5][10]. Group 2: Leadership and Vision - Tian Xiuqing's leadership was characterized by her dual strategy of internal talent development and external recruitment, emphasizing the importance of skilled personnel in the technology sector [7][11]. - She actively sought to educate her team and foster a culture of learning, often leading by example and demonstrating resilience in the face of challenges [6][12]. Group 3: Technological Development - The factory faced numerous technical challenges, including the need for specialized equipment like the dicing machine, which was developed in-house to save costs [13][14]. - By leveraging both internal resources and external expertise, the factory successfully produced its first transistors, marking a significant milestone in its operational capabilities [16][18]. Group 4: Legacy and Impact - Tian Xiuqing's dedication and innovative spirit not only contributed to the factory's success but also inspired a generation of workers, embedding a culture of perseverance and commitment within the organization [17][19]. - The factory's evolution into an independent entity in 1972 and its subsequent achievements in the semiconductor industry are a testament to the foundational work laid by Tian Xiuqing and her team [18][19].

Core Viewpoint - Nexperia has suspended wafer supply to its Chinese assembly plant due to local management's failure to comply with contractual payment terms, raising concerns about supply chain disruptions in the automotive industry [2][3]. Group 1: Company Actions and Implications - Nexperia's suspension of wafer supply is a direct consequence of non-compliance with payment terms by the local management in Dongguan, China [2]. - The Dutch government has taken control of Nexperia from its Chinese parent company, Wingtech, amid ongoing disputes, including the replacement of Nexperia's Chinese CEO [2][4]. - Nexperia is developing alternative solutions to ensure continued wafer supply to its customers, indicating a commitment to resolving the issues without exiting the Chinese market [2]. Group 2: Industry Impact and Reactions - The suspension of supplies has raised alarms among global automotive manufacturers, with Stellantis establishing a "war room" to monitor the situation [3]. - Japanese automaker Nissan has reported sufficient chip inventory to last until the first week of November, indicating a temporary buffer against supply disruptions [3]. - Concerns have been raised about potential production interruptions in the automotive sector due to shortages of critical components, including transistors and logic chips [4]. Group 3: Governance and Legal Issues - The Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs cited "serious governance deficiencies" as a reason for taking control of Nexperia, which has led to legal actions against its former CEO [4][5]. - Allegations have surfaced regarding the former CEO's plans to transfer equipment and patents from Europe to China, raising concerns about the integrity of Nexperia's operations [5]. - Wingtech has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that technology sharing is standard practice in the semiconductor industry and refuting claims of technology theft [5][6].

Core Insights - The article discusses the historical development and future prospects of transistors, emphasizing their central role in modern technology and the ongoing advancements in silicon devices [2][4][7]. Group 1: Historical Context - Julius Edgar Lilienfeld applied for a patent in 1925 for a method to control electric current, which laid the groundwork for field-effect transistors, although it was not developed into a working prototype at the time [4]. - The first working transistor was invented in December 1947 by William Shockley, John Bardeen, and Walter Brattain at Bell Labs, marking a significant milestone in semiconductor technology [4]. Group 2: Current Developments - The revolution in artificial intelligence is directly linked to advancements in silicon-based complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) technology, which has made transistors smaller, cheaper, and more powerful [7]. - By 2018, approximately 130 billion billion (10^21) transistors had been manufactured, indicating the massive scale of production and the ongoing growth in this area [7]. Group 3: Future Prospects - As the physical limits of silicon are approached, researchers are exploring alternative semiconductors, including two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides and one-dimensional carbon nanotubes [8]. - Innovations reported in 2023 include molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) transistors with gate lengths under 60 nanometers and new transfer techniques for two-dimensional device integration [8]. - While predicting the future of transistor technology is challenging, it is expected that transistors will continue to dominate for a considerable time, despite the potential emergence of new platforms like memristors or quantum bits [8].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the geopolitical tensions surrounding the semiconductor industry, particularly focusing on the conflict involving Dutch company Nexperia (formerly part of Philips and NXP) and its Chinese parent company, Wingtech Technology, amid U.S. export controls and Dutch government intervention [5][28][36]. Group 1: Background of Nexperia - Nexperia originated as a core semiconductor division of Philips and later became a part of NXP, which has shifted its focus to high-profit sectors like IoT and automotive chips, leading to Nexperia being spun off due to its lower profit margins in power semiconductors [15][16]. - Nexperia specializes in power semiconductors, which include diodes and transistors, and has established itself as a leader in automotive-grade chips, holding significant market shares in various segments, including 40% of the global inverter chip market for electric vehicles [18][20][25]. Group 2: Acquisition and Growth - In 2019, Wingtech Technology acquired Nexperia for over 34 billion yuan, transforming it into a Chinese subsidiary, which subsequently experienced significant growth, with revenue increasing by 60% and net profits multiplying since the acquisition [23][25]. - Nexperia's success has been bolstered by the rise of China's new energy vehicle market, with 40% of its shipments directed to Chinese automakers, contributing to substantial tax revenues and job creation in Europe [25]. Group 3: Geopolitical Tensions - In December 2022, Wingtech was placed on the U.S. export control entity list, which was later expanded to include Nexperia, prompting the Dutch government to intervene and take control of the company, citing national security concerns [28][31]. - The Dutch government's actions included freezing Wingtech's global subsidiaries and replacing its management, which has been criticized as a capitulation to U.S. pressure and a move to seize valuable assets [31][34]. Group 4: Impact on the Semiconductor Supply Chain - Following the Dutch government's intervention, China responded with export controls on Nexperia's products, halting shipments from its critical manufacturing facilities in Dongguan and Huizhou, which are essential for the global supply chain [36][37]. - The European automotive industry expressed alarm over potential chip shortages, with major manufacturers warning that their production lines could face immediate disruptions due to the lack of semiconductor supplies [41][42]. Group 5: Future Implications - The situation highlights the fragility of global supply chains in the semiconductor industry, where geopolitical tensions can rapidly escalate into significant operational challenges for companies [46]. - The article suggests that the era of easily seizing foreign assets through legal means is over, emphasizing the need for careful consideration before leveraging such strategies in a globalized economy [47][48].

Core Viewpoint - The recent legal and capital actions from the Netherlands against Nexperia, a key player in the global automotive chip supply chain, have caused significant disruptions, affecting not only the company but also the broader industry [1][2]. Group 1: Company Impact - The Dutch government issued an order freezing Nexperia's global assets and operations for one year, leading to the suspension of the Chinese CEO and disruptions in operations [3][4]. - Nexperia's parent company, Wingtech Technology, has initiated legal proceedings against the Dutch government, claiming unfair treatment and seeking international arbitration under the China-Netherlands Bilateral Investment Protection Agreement [2][10]. - The company has reported that the Chinese Ministry of Commerce has imposed export controls on specific products, further complicating its operational capabilities [4]. Group 2: Industry Implications - The automotive industry is facing a potential chip supply crisis, with warnings from European and American automotive organizations about the impact of Nexperia's operational disruptions [4][5]. - Nexperia produces essential components like diodes and transistors, which are critical for modern vehicle control systems, indicating that its operational issues could have widespread effects on the automotive supply chain [4][7]. - The geopolitical tensions surrounding Nexperia's operations highlight the vulnerabilities in the global semiconductor supply chain, particularly in the context of rising protectionism [9][13]. Group 3: Historical Context - Nexperia was formed from the semiconductor division of Philips and has undergone significant changes, including a complete acquisition by Wingtech Technology for over 33 billion RMB [5][7]. - Since the acquisition, Nexperia has seen a revenue increase of 60% and has expanded its global manufacturing network, emphasizing its role as a major player in the semiconductor industry [7][8]. Group 4: Future Outlook - The ongoing legal battles and geopolitical tensions suggest that Nexperia's situation may not resolve quickly, with potential long-term implications for its operations and the semiconductor industry as a whole [2][10]. - There are indications that the Dutch government may seek discussions with Chinese officials to address the current stalemate, reflecting the broader economic ties between the two nations [13].

Core Viewpoint - The semiconductor industry is experiencing renewed tensions, particularly with the Dutch government's sudden actions against Chinese company Nexperia, a subsidiary of Wingtech Technology, which has raised concerns over high-tech control and national security [1][3]. Group 1: Dutch Government Actions - The Dutch government has taken administrative control measures against Nexperia, citing "national security," resulting in a global operational freeze and asset freeze amounting to 14.7 billion RMB [3][8]. - A ministerial decree from the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs prohibits Nexperia and its 30 global subsidiaries from making any adjustments to assets, intellectual property, or personnel for a year [8]. - The Amsterdam Court of Appeal has suspended the CEO appointed by Wingtech Technology and appointed a non-executive director with decisive voting rights, effectively stripping Chinese control over Nexperia [8]. Group 2: Response from China - The Chinese Ministry of Commerce has strongly opposed the Dutch government's actions, criticizing the broad application of "national security" and direct interference in corporate affairs [5][10]. - The Ministry has indicated that it will take necessary measures to protect the legitimate rights of Chinese enterprises, referencing previous retaliatory actions against U.S. companies [11]. - Chinese officials have emphasized that the Dutch actions are a clear example of how U.S. "penetration rules" harm Chinese business interests, urging the Netherlands to maintain an independent stance [9][10]. Group 3: Impact on the Semiconductor Industry - Nexperia is a leading player in the global discrete and power chip market, crucial for the automotive semiconductor sector, with a product portfolio of nearly 16,000 items [7]. - The European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) has warned that disruptions in Nexperia's chip supply could severely impact the European automotive industry, with manufacturers struggling to find alternative suppliers [10]. - The ongoing situation has raised alarms within the global semiconductor supply chain, with potential production halts looming for automotive manufacturers if chip supplies are not restored quickly [10][11].