STMicroelectronics Unveils L98GD8: Flexible 8-Channel 48V Gate Driver for Next-Gen Automotive Power

STMicroelectronics has announced the release of its new L98GD8 flexible 8-channel 48V gate driver, setting a new benchmark for power management in modern automotive and industrial applications. The L98GD8 stands out for its versatility, offering support for 12V, 24V, and 48V battery systems, and is engineered to address the evolving needs of electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid vehicles, and demanding industrial automation sectors. The product is currently drawing significant attention from the Indian automotive and industrial landscape, as covered by technology news outlets such as Bisinfotech.

The L98GD8 is an 8-channel MOSFET pre-driver that can be configured for a range of load control scenarios, including low-side, high-side, H-bridge, and peak-and-hold operations. This flexibility makes it suitable for controlling DC motors, valves, and complex actuator systems in automotive environments. The device is fully compliant with AEC-Q100 automotive standards and can be integrated into both passenger and commercial vehicles that use 12V, 24V, or 48V battery architectures. Its compact TQFP64 10×10 mm package further eases integration into space-constrained designs.

What Sets the L98GD8 Apart?

• Highly Configurable Outputs: Each channel can be independently set for high-side, low-side, H-bridge, or peak-and-hold mode, supporting up to two H-bridges or two peak-and-hold loads simultaneously.
• Advanced Diagnostics: The device features on-chip diagnostics for short-to-battery, short-to-ground, open-load, and overcurrent events. All channel statuses are monitored through a robust SPI interface, with 64 programmable overcurrent thresholds for granular control.
• Enhanced Safety: The L98GD8 includes redundant disable mechanisms, fail-safe hardware checks, and built-in self-test (BIST) features to ensure safe operation even in critical automotive environments.
• EMI and Efficiency: Programmable gate charge/discharge currents and controlled voltage slew rates help minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI), a key consideration for automotive electronics.
• Broad Voltage Range: Operates from 3.8V to 58V, making it highly adaptable for next-generation powertrains and industrial systems.
• Diagnostics and Communication: 32-bit SPI protocol enables advanced configuration, daisy-chaining for complex systems, and real-time fault reporting.

Comparison: L98GD8 vs. Previous and Competing Gate Drivers

The L98GD8’s ability to handle more channels and its flexible configuration options give it a distinct advantage in complex automotive and industrial setups, especially for applications involving multiple actuators or mixed motor/valve control.

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Industry Reaction and Regional Impact

Indian technology media, including Bisinfotech, have spotlighted the L98GD8 launch as a pivotal moment for local automotive and industrial manufacturers. The gate driver’s flexibility and robust feature set are expected to accelerate the adoption of 48V architectures in the region, particularly for mild-hybrid vehicles and advanced automation projects. Industry professionals are optimistic about the potential for the L98GD8 to streamline power management, enhance safety, and reduce system complexity in next-generation vehicle platforms.

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“The L98GD8’s blend of flexibility, diagnostics, and safety is poised to set a new standard for automotive gate drivers, especially as India’s industry rapidly embraces 48V and hybrid architectures.”

As the demand for efficient, safe, and flexible power management grows, the L98GD8 is well-positioned to become a cornerstone for future automotive and industrial designs in India and beyond.