Hillcrest completes phase 1 of tech evaluation project

Executive Summary

• Hillcrest Energy Technologies successfully completed Phase 1 of a technology evaluation with a global Tier 1 automotive supplier, demonstrating the technical feasibility of converting half-bridge power modules to enable Zero Voltage Switching (ZVS) for next-generation EV inverter applications.
• The company is prioritizing commercialization strategies focused on high-value opportunities, including technology licensing and joint development agreements in the automotive sector, while advancing the development of its ZVS PCS1000 product for grid-connected applications.
• The ZVS PCS1000 (200 kW, 1,000 V) is being developed for AI data centers, energy storage, and EV charging, with A-sample prototype demonstrations expected in Q2 2026; the technology offers >99% efficiency and significant component cost/size reductions.

Key Details

• Automotive Technology Validation:
  • Completed Phase 1 of evaluation with a global Tier 1 automotive supplier (ranked top 15 by revenue).
  • Objective: Convert supplier's half-bridge power modules to enable ZVS operation.
  • Deliverables: Baseline measurements, hardware design, prototype production/assembly, double pulse testing, and final hardware delivery.
  • Outcome: Demonstrated technical viability and clear pathway for ZVS integration into established automotive supplier platforms.
• Performance Metrics:
  • Commercial traction inverter prototypes achieved up to 99.7% efficiency.
  • Demonstrated system-level efficiency gains of up to 6% at various low-power operating points using the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP).
• Grid-Connected Product Development (ZVS PCS1000):
  • Specifications: 200 kilowatts, 1,000 volts.
  • Target Applications: AI data centers, energy storage, EV charging, and renewable energy integration.
  • Timeline: A-sample prototype demonstrations expected in Q2 2026.
  • Architecture: Streamlined 800 V DC distribution to eliminate intermediate conversion stages, addressing heat and space inefficiencies in traditional data center power architectures.
  • Efficiency: >99% efficiency; for a 100 MW data center, a 0.5% efficiency improvement avoids 500 kW in conversion losses.
  • Scalability: Modular design scales from single units to multimegawatt installations (>1.2 MW) with N+1 redundancy and hot-swap capability.
• Component Advantages (White Paper Data):
  • ZVS-optimized inductors show cost reductions of up to 75%, weight reductions of up to 4x, and volume reductions of up to 3.3x compared to conventional designs.
  • Ultralow electromagnetic interference (EMI) characteristics simplify grid compliance for sensitive computing environments.
• Strategic Partnerships & Commercialization:
  • Automotive: Focusing on licensing, joint development, and partnerships with OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers; seeking sector-focused exclusivity and non-dilutive capital.
  • Grid/Manufacturing: Advanced discussions with Pasqua First Nation and Apeiron Resources Ltd. regarding Canadian manufacturing and commercialization of ZVS grid inverter products, emphasizing economic participation and energy sovereignty.
  • Strategy: Prioritizing engagements with highest commercial value potential and fastest paths to revenue generation.

Notable Quotes

• "The completion of this project phase represents an important proof point for our technology and demonstrates a clear pathway for ZVS integration into established automotive supplier platforms," said Hillcrest chief executive officer Don Currie.
• "Completion of this phase with the Tier 1 automotive supplier strengthens our strategic position... We are now focused on pursuing the highest-value opportunities in both markets: monetizing our proven automotive technology through licensing and partnerships with the most commercially attractive parties, while bringing our ZVS PCS1000 products to market to serve the rapidly growing data centre sector and other high-value grid applications."