How easy would it be to rip-and-replace SiC-based components and use silicon in EVs?
Hi! I'm a researcher trying to understand the wide bandgap semiconductor supply chain (I'm not an engineer, forgive me if I haven't phrased my questions precisely). Specifically, how critical is it for modern EVs to incorporate wide bandgap semiconductors? My understanding is that most modern EVs use SiC chips for inverters and for charging applications. Let's say it was impossible to obtain newer SiC-based chips because the supply chain was disrupted. How much disruption / cost would it cause to rip-and-replace those chips and with traditional silicon? How much crappier is your EV at that point? Let's say, for example, Tesla is using SiC-based components and another company is forced to use silicon-based components, is the other company now uncompetitive in the EV market?
One other question: Is it actually the automakers themselves that buy wide bandgap chips, or are they buying a module made by a supplier that uses those chips, anyone know?
Thank you!