[News] Wolfspeed Sues Navitas Over GaN, SiC Patents, Reportedly Seeks U.S. Sales Ban - TrendForce

A new patent dispute has emerged in the power semiconductor industry, with Wolfspeed suing Navitas for alleged infringement of its foundational gallium nitride (GaN) and silicon carbide (SiC) patents.... Read original →

Wolfspeed’s lawsuit against Navitas transcends a routine IP clash—it’s a battle for technological hegemony between SiC and GaN. Technically, an injunction could disrupt power module makers reliant on Navitas’ GaN FETs or GeneSiC™ MOSFETs, delaying 800V EV architectures and solar inverter upgrades. From a compliance standpoint, U.S. ITC intervention might trigger import bans, exposing Navitas—fabless and automotive-SiC-nascent—to acute supply chain fragility. Strategically, Infineon and STMicroelectronics may aggressively license their GaN/SiC IP to capture Navitas’ at-risk customers, while Wolfspeed leverages litigation to fortify its vertical integration advantage. Over the next 12–24 months, expect a surge in defensive patenting; firms lacking foundational IP will struggle to access premium markets like EVs and renewables.