Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO:6503) announced today that it will launch a next-generation traction inverter system incorporating large-capacity silicon carbide (SiC) power modules. Railcar systems fitted with the traction inverter will achieve 30% energy savings, require less maintenance and emit less noise than conventional silicon (Si) power modules. The first commercial application, following a series of ongoing field tests starting January 2012, is expected to be in railcars of Tokyo Metro Co., Ltd.

Compared to Si-based power modules used in current traction inverters, the newly developed SiC power module offers a number of important improvements. In addition to 30% reduced power loss in the traction inverter, inverter size and weight have been reduced by 40% each.

The new inverter system also enhances the performance of regenerative brakes, which will lead to producing more regenerative electricity. Incorporating two 1,700V and 1,200A SiC chips, the new inverter's high-frequency switching capability also achieves 40% less power loss in the motor. Furthermore, the new inverter emits up to 6dB less noise compared to conventional models.

Railways are garnering renewed attention as a means of reduced-carbon transportation. Continued improvements in railcar equipment performance, including Mitsubishi Electric's new inverter system, are expected to lower the environmental impact of railways even further.

About Mitsubishi Electric

With 90 years of experience in providing reliable, high-quality products to both corporate clients and general consumers all over the world, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO: 6503) is a recognized world leader in the manufacture, marketing and sales of electrical and electronic equipment used in information processing and communications, space development and satellite communications, consumer electronics, industrial technology, energy, transportation and building equipment. The company recorded consolidated group sales of 3,645.3 billion yen (US$ 43.9 billion*) in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011. For more information visit http://www.MitsubishiElectric.com

*At an exchange rate of 83 yen to the US dollar, the rate given by the Tokyo Foreign Exchange Market on March 31, 2011

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
Customer Inquiries:
Kenta Takizawa, +81-3-3218-1415
Public Utility Systems Group
Transportation@ny.MitsubishiElectric.co.jp
or
Media Contact:
Yurika Fujimoto, +81-3-3218-3380
Public Relations Division
prd.gnews@nk.MitsubishiElectric.co.jp
http://www.MitsubishiElectric.com/news/?