STMicroelectronics launches 48V automotive pre-driver with 8 channels

By AI, Created 9:41 PM UTC, June 03, 2026, /AGP/ – STMicroelectronics has introduced the L98GD8E, a 48V automotive pre-driver that combines ISO 21780 compliance with eight configurable high-side and low-side outputs. The chip is aimed at mild-hybrid and auxiliary vehicle systems and is in production now.

Why it matters: - The L98GD8E gives automotive designers a single pre-driver for 48V electrical systems that can handle multiple load types and configurations. - The chip is aimed at higher-efficiency vehicle architectures, where 48V power delivery can reduce wiring weight and current ratings. - Advanced diagnostics and fast shutoff features target safety and compliance needs in automotive systems.

What happened: - STMicroelectronics introduced the L98GD8E 48V automotive pre-driver. - The device combines ISO 21780 compliance with eight channels for high-side and low-side driving. - The AMR is 75V. - The chip is in production now. - Budgetary pricing starts at $3.95 for orders of 1,000 pieces. - More information is available in the company’s announcement.

The details: - The eight outputs are independently configurable for external high-side N-channel and P-channel, or low-side N-channel MOSFETs. - One IC can control up to two H bridges in DC motor drives. - The device can also manage multiple relays, resistive loads and capacitive loads. - The L98GD8E supports peak-and-hold control for small valves. - Channel 6 is designed for safety-relevant loads that need a dedicated enable pin. - Typical applications include mild-hybrid powertrain and energy recovery systems. - Other target uses include e-compressors and integrated starter generators. - MOSFET slew-rate control during turn on and turn off helps with EMC requirements. - Fault detection covers short-to-ground, short-to-battery and open-load conditions in both ON and OFF states. - Two integrated 10-bit ADCs monitor battery voltage and device temperature. - The ADC data supports dynamic and automatic overcurrent threshold compensation. - The device works with 3.3V and 5V logic. - A high-speed SPI interface handles configuration and diagnostic signal sharing. - Diagnostics include built-in self-test, hardware self-checking of internal overvoltage-detection circuitry and a communication-check watchdog timer. - The SPI interface also provides battery and die temperature measurements. - Two disable pins provide dual-redundant fast switch-off. - The package is a 10mm x 10mm TQFP64.

Between the lines: - STMicroelectronics is positioning the chip for vehicle platforms that need more integration, more load flexibility and stronger safety diagnostics from a single IC. - The combination of 48V support, multiple outputs and built-in protection suggests a push to simplify designs that would otherwise require more discrete components.

What’s next: - Automotive customers can now source the L98GD8E for new 48V designs. - Broader adoption will likely depend on qualification in specific vehicle programs and design wins in mild-hybrid and auxiliary systems.

The bottom line: - STMicroelectronics is betting that a compliant, diagnostic-heavy 48V pre-driver can help automakers scale electrified vehicle subsystems with less complexity.