A small sensor can track EV temperatures without wires, making powertrains safer, faster, and more reliable. Read more!
Electric vehicle powertrains need fast and reliable temperature data from parts that sit at high voltage and high heat. Today, many of these points are still monitored using NTC thermistors, which require physical contact, wiring, and manual assembly. This adds noise risk, safety concerns, and limits long-term reliability. Melexis addresses this gap with the MLX90637, an automotive-grade surface-mount infrared temperature sensor built for EV powertrain monitoring.
The sensor is designed for systems such as inverters, motors, and HVAC units where temperature must be measured quickly without touching the component. By using infrared sensing instead of contact probes, it removes wiring near high-voltage nodes and avoids errors caused by aging, poor contact, or vibration. Galvanic isolation separates the sensing side from the control electronics, improving safety, while inherent EMC immunity avoids interference issues common with long sensor cables.
Unlike earlier infrared sensors that rely on TO-CAN packages and manual placement, the MLX90637 comes in a standard SMD package that fits fully automated PCB assembly. This reduces manual work, lowers system complexity, and cuts overall cost. The sensor operates from –40°C to 125°C ambient, making it suitable for long-life automotive use.
For applications such as inverter busbar monitoring, the sensor provides a 50° field of view, 0.02°C resolution, and fast response. This allows tighter thermal control and earlier detection of overheating without risking electrical isolation or component damage.
System integration is kept simple. The device runs from a 3.3 V supply, comes factory-calibrated, and communicates over I²C with a configurable address. It is housed in a compact package, making it easy to place close to the target area on dense automotive PCBs.
“The introduction of the MLX90637 marks another world’s first for Melexis’ temperature sensor range, being the first automotive-qualified SMD FIR temperature sensor.” said Joris Roels, Marketing Manager at Melexis. He added, “By offering a sensor that improves system reliability, enhances safety, and streamlines assembly, Melexis is helping automotive manufacturers to deliver EVs that meet the highest standards of performance and safety.”
