Seoul Semiconductor’s High-Voltage LED Technology Gains Traction Among Leading Automakers

Seoul Semiconductor has announced that its proprietary high-voltage (HV) opto-semiconductor technology has entered mass production with four major global automotive manufacturers spanning North America, Europe, and Asia. The company expects the technology to be incorporated into approximately ten vehicle models by the end of the year. 

The HV technology represents a departure from conventional 3V LED systems by enabling single-chip operation at significantly higher voltages. By combining high-voltage LED chips with specialized driver technology, Seoul Semiconductor aims to improve efficiency in hybrid and electric vehicle lighting systems while reducing the complexity of supporting electronics.

According to the company, the solution can lower the number of driver-related components by more than 10% and reduce overall power consumption by roughly 10%. The simplified architecture is also expected to decrease heat generation, improve durability, and reduce driver costs compared with traditional LED implementations.

A key element of the technology is a multi-junction structure that allows higher-voltage operation within a single chip. In electric and hybrid vehicles, where battery systems operate at much higher voltages, this approach reduces the amount of voltage conversion required and helps minimize energy losses associated with power management. 

Seoul Semiconductor views the automotive sector as a major growth opportunity, particularly as electrified vehicles become a larger share of global car sales. The company believes increasing demand for advanced lighting, communication systems, and vehicle electronics will drive broader adoption of high-performance opto-semiconductor technologies.

Backed by an extensive portfolio of patents related to high-voltage LED chips and driver technologies, Seoul Semiconductor plans to expand its automotive customer base and strengthen its position in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.