publive-image

Apple supplier TDK partners with McLaren Racing, leveraging Formula E for next-gen EV technology development for safer and long-lasting electric vehicles

Japanese electronics company TDK, a leading supplier for Apple and a global leader in smartphone batteries, formed a strategic partnership with the McLaren Racing company. TDK said the partnership is meant to support McLaren's involvement in the Formula E electric race series and to back TDK's ambitions in the electric vehicle sector.

Through this alliance, TDK endeavours to hone technological advantage and to centre on new components indispensable to the growth of its electric vehicle business products among which are its inverters and sensors as crucial and fundamental parts required in driving an electric vehicle.

“Formula E technology is always at the cutting edge of EVs, and we want them to utilize our components so we can sharpen our technology”, said Taro Ikushima, CEO of TDK's Electronic Components Business Company. TDK has already provided components for McLaren's Nissan-powered e-4ORCE 05 vehicles and will continue to look for further opportunities in the EV supply chain.

From having long been known for consumer cassette tapes, TDK has turned to even higher-tech materials, such as multilayer ceramic chip capacitors, which electric cars use intensively. Parts from TDK are already fitted into plug-in hybrids and all-electric vehicles; the latter employs almost double the number of capacitors compared with a traditional internal combustion vehicle.

“Safety, durability, longevity, in automotive these are very important factors and can be applied to other industries,” Ikushima added, emphasizing the broad potential for TDK’s technology beyond the automotive sector​.

The news comes as TDK's stock has surged 39% this year, far outpacing the 13% advance of Japan's Topix index. The performance indicates that investors have confidence in TDK's ability to gain more market share as the market for electric vehicles continues to grow exponentially. With global demand for electric vehicle components on the rise, the strategy shows TDK's intent to stay innovative and expand in the sustainable transport area.