Honda diamond semiconductor research lab advances next-generation power electronics

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has announced a major step forward in advanced power electronics development with the launch of a new joint research facility focused on diamond-based semiconductors. The initiative strengthens Honda diamond semiconductor research as the company prepares for future mobility and energy-efficient technologies.
The newly established Honda R&D-AIST Diamond×Electronics Cooperative Research Laboratory has been set up through a collaboration between Honda R&D Co., Ltd., the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, and AIST Solutions Corporation. The laboratory is located at AIST Tsukuba, a core hub for next-generation power semiconductor research.

Advancing diamond semiconductor technology

Diamond semiconductors are gaining global attention due to their superior physical properties, including high thermal conductivity, wide bandgap, and strong breakdown voltage. These characteristics make them a promising candidate for next-generation power semiconductor devices used in demanding applications.
The focus of Honda diamond semiconductor research at this facility includes both material and device-level innovation. Research activities are designed to bridge the gap between laboratory-scale success and real-world application readiness.

Substrate and device development focus

Key research themes at the laboratory include:

• Diamond semiconductor substrate technology for stable and scalable production

• Device technology development aimed at power semiconductor applications

• Performance evaluation for high-efficiency power electronics systems

These efforts are expected to support future automotive power electronics that require higher efficiency, compact size, and improved thermal management.

Collaborative platform for future applications

Beyond core research, the laboratory will also function as an open innovation platform. It is intended to encourage collaboration with external partners, enabling broader industry participation in advancing diamond semiconductor technology.
By situating the laboratory within AIST’s leading research environment, Honda diamond semiconductor research benefits from close integration with academic expertise and industrial development capabilities. This approach is aimed at accelerating the path toward practical implementation of diamond-based power semiconductor devices.
As demand grows for next-generation power electronics across automotive and industrial sectors, this collaborative research framework positions Honda to play a central role in shaping future semiconductor technologies without compromising efficiency or reliability.