By the progress of automotive electronics, a variety of electronics components are mounted directly on the engine compartment and the inverter system, which controls the electric motor in a hybrid vehicle, is also located in the engine compartment, where its components have to withstand the high temperatures. Murata has worked diligently on capacitors for power electronics by going back to ceramic material development. As a result, these capacitors can handle high current even under high-temperature conditions. Murata's competitive advantage begins with the materials we use.

Regulations in the United States require the installation of a Tire Pressure Monitoring System in cars. A pressure sensor installed in each tire communicates wirelessly with the dashboard monitor. Murata also offers sensors that help detect objects during parking and reversing maneuvers. Here, our flat beam technology has allowed us to reduce sensor size and improve efficiency. We have combined sensor technology with communication technology to make vehicles even more sensitive and attentive.

Rechargeable batteries are becoming a key device technology in power electronics, especially in automotive applications. Murata works on developing lithium ion rechargeable batteries that feature high energy density and long life. The cathode of a lithium ion rechargeable battery is made of ceramic material, providing yet another application for Murata’s material technology. Compact and high power lithium ion rechargeable batteries realize light weight and high performances of applications. This, in turn, helps preserve the global environment.

CAN-BUS is one of the onboard LAN interface standards to accommodate automotive electronics that is advancing in complexity and functionality. It reduces the number of wire harnesses, which tend to increase with automotive electronics, increases data transmission speed, accommodates the diagnostic system, and interconnects the power-train and body control units. A key device for CAN-BUS is tight tolerance ceramic resonators. Murata has developed CERALOCK® for this application, characterized in that superior temperature stability and fast start-up time.