Samsung Electro-Mechanics Pioneers Breakthrough MLCC for Autonomous Vehicle LiDAR Systems

Samsung Electro-Mechanics has achieved a significant milestone in automotive electronics with the development of the world’s first multilayer ceramic capacitor (MLCC) tailored for LiDAR sensors, a critical technology in autonomous vehicles. Announced on February 5, this innovation underscores the company’s strategic push into the rapidly expanding automotive market. Often referred to as the “rice of the electronics industry” due to their ubiquitous role in powering electronic devices, MLCCs are indispensable for storing and regulating electrical energy in semiconductors. The new MLCC, measuring a mere 1mm by 0.5mm, sets itself apart with its ability to operate at 10V, a 60% improvement over the previous 6.3V standard. It is also the first of its kind to achieve AEC-Q200 certification, the gold standard for reliability in automotive components.

Precision Engineering for LiDAR Applications

LiDAR, a sensor technology that measures distances with millimeter-level accuracy, is a cornerstone of autonomous driving systems. These sensors demand compact, high-capacity MLCCs to function effectively under demanding conditions. Samsung’s latest innovation is specifically engineered to meet these requirements, delivering exceptional performance even in environments with high humidity or physical stress.

A Samsung spokesperson highlighted the product’s capabilities, stating, “Our MLCC offers industry-leading high-voltage performance, ensuring reliability in the most challenging operational scenarios.”

Expanding Applications Across Automotive Systems

Beyond LiDAR, Samsung Electro-Mechanics envisions its automotive-grade MLCC being integrated into a wide range of vehicle systems. These include advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), vehicle body controls, chassis management, and infotainment systems. With modern vehicles relying on anywhere from 3,000 to 10,000 MLCCs, the demand for high-performance components is surging as the automotive industry evolves toward greater electrification and autonomy.

Targeting the Automotive Market

The development reflects a broader trend among electronics manufacturers, who are increasingly shifting their focus from smartphones to the automotive sector. As vehicles become more technologically advanced, the need for reliable, high-capacity components like MLCCs is expected to grow exponentially.

Samsung Electro-Mechanics’ breakthrough not only positions the company as a leader in automotive electronics but also highlights its commitment to driving innovation in next-generation mobility solutions. By addressing the unique challenges of autonomous vehicle technology, this new MLCC paves the way for safer, more efficient, and more reliable transportation systems.

As the automotive industry continues to embrace electrification and autonomy, Samsung’s latest achievement marks a pivotal step forward in the race to power the vehicles of tomorrow.