Combined Inverter and DC/DC Converter

Delphi Combined Inverter and DC/DC Converter (CIDD) is our OE solution for hybrids (HEV), plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV), and battery electric vehicles (BEV) that delivers maximum power density in a lighter, smaller, cost-effective package.

As the market for electric cars rapidly increases, independent aftermarket garages will need the right replacement part for the repair. That’s why Delphi is offering exact OE performance with our power electronic aftermarket parts.

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What is the difference between an inverter and DC/DC converter in an electric vehicle?

Much like how internal combustion engines and alternators work together on conventional vehicles, hybrid cars and electric motors use inverters and converters to manage power to and from the battery pack to the motors and other on-board systems.

Inverters transform direct current (DC) from the battery into alternating current (AC) to power the vehicle. Inverters also control the motor and convert it to a generator, transferring braking energy back into the battery.

Converters control the DC voltage from the battery, either stepping it up or down based on the system and the power needed. DC/DC converters usually step down the high voltage from the battery pack to the 12-volts used by radios, headlights, and more.

An OE solution for aftermarket power electronics

Inverters and converters work together to manage the vehicle's electric drive and accessory systems. However, many of today’s inverters and converters can be complex, expensive, and prone to failure from excessive heat. They are also heavy and take up a lot of room on the vehicle, compromising both trunk and passenger compartment space. Delphi OE solution combines the inverter and DC/DC converter into one unit.

Delphi CIDD is cost-effective and saves vital weight and space in hybrids (HEV), plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV), and electric vehicles (EV). And by leveraging patented OE technology - Viper-enabled inverter’s double-sided cooling - it tackles the issue of overheating, allowing higher power outputs from a smaller package and increased range.

Combined Inverter and DC/DC Converter (CIDD)

Enhances durability and reliability through features designed to withstand under the hood and environmental factors such as debris and temperature extremes.
Improves voltage distribution functionality, enabling both low-side and high-side power for everything from headlights to power steering and air conditioning systems.
Provides maximum packaging flexibility and space savings by moving the DC/DC unit from its standard location in the rear to the front of the vehicle.
Enables better power range and minimizing power losses through the elimination of cabling, cooling hoses, connections, and housings, all while simplifying maintenance and repair.

To learn more about OE quality aftermarket EV parts you can trust, contact your Delphi representative today.

The Delphi Difference

100 years of OE experience, supplier to the world’s top automakers
OE heritage and knowledge built into every aftermarket part
Comprehensive portfolio for a wide range of vehicles and model years
Streamlined SKUs for easy inventory management
Support through tools, tips and training

Related product resources and downloads

How do NOx sensors work | Masters of Motion

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How Do NOx Sensors Work – Emission Management

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Sensors Vehicle Electronics & Engine Management Need to Know Technicians 3 min read

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How do NOx sensors work?

The NOx sensor is a component inside the modern combustion engine that performs a vital role in emissions monitoring and car performance. Discover how NOx sensors work with this guide from the experts at Delphi.

What are NOx sensors?

An Oxides of Nitrogen sensor (NOx sensor) is a device designed to monitor the output of oxides of nitrogen within diesel engines, so they can adhere to emission regulations. NOx sensors are part of the NOx reduction system installed inside diesel vehicles, measuring the amount of nitrogen oxide being emitted from the engine.

Find out more about NOx sensors with our guide.

How does a NOx sensor work?

The NOx sensor feeds into the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system, which alters the chemical makeup of harmful emissions to reduce the amount of NOx going out.

The sensor is installed in the exhaust gas system.
It monitors the flow of exhaust emissions to detect the amount of nitrogen oxides passing through. The sensor is composed of a Nernst cell with current flowing through, which corrects the air/fuel ratio to λ=1, and a second cell (usually ceramic with a layer of rhodium), which breaks down the nitrogen oxides into nitrogen and oxygen.
The NOx controller – usually positioned close to the NOx sensor – calculates the level of oxides of nitrogen present in the exhaust gas and sends the data to the SCR controller.
The SCR controller acts accordingly – adjusting the amount of diesel exhaust fluid injected into SCR catalyst and which turns excess NOx into water and nitrogen – much safer for the environment.

Do NOx sensors need programming?

If there is an issue with a car’s NOx sensors for whatever reason, it’s likely to cause the engine management light to switch on. The car in question may be getting error codes relating to the NOx sensor – you can reset NOx sensor error codes from the diagnostic scanner.

Why are NOx sensors important?

NOx sensors are an important part of a vehicle’s engine, both for performance and environmental reasons.

If the NOx sensor stops functioning properly, it may send a warning to the onboard computer, causing it to trigger ‘Limp Home Mode’ – in which case you should be able to detect what went wrong using the OBD system.

They are also important in the ongoing drive for cleaner vehicles – helping to reduce the amount of harmful oxides of nitrogen being released into the air.

Environmental regulations in force around the world are focusing more closely on reducing NOx emissions.

According to a government report, emissions from transport on the UK’s roads fell 69% between 2005 and 2021 since newer vehicles performed better to reduce harmful emissions.
Current EU regulations called the Euro 6 stipulates a limit of 80mg/km NOx emissions from new diesel passenger vehicles. That’s down from 180mg/km when Euro 5 was introduced.

Therefore, having oxides of nitrogen sensors in cars is an essential contribution to meeting these minimum guidelines – and a step towards reducing them even further in future.

Are NOx sensors fitted to all cars?

NOx sensors are fitted to most road vehicles, both diesel and petrol. For diesel cars and trucks the NOx sensor is a vital addition within the SCR system – it is the only way to ensure your car is emitting levels of oxides of nitrogen within regulated limits.

How can you tell if a NOx sensor is faulty?

The best way to detect a faulty NOx sensor is to use the OBD system. Depending on the make and model of the car, a dedicated error code could be traced back to a number of issues, one of which is a faulty NOx sensor.

Common symptoms of a faulty NOx sensor that affect cars’ performance include:

Engine warning light. The check engine light going on is a sure sign that something needs to be addressed. It can occur when an electronics component fails – such as the NOx sensor.
Engine limp mode or non-start status. The vehicle may enter ‘limp mode’ during a journey, triggered by the on-board computer, or the engine may not start.
Increased NOx emissions. Without the sensor able to detect any issues, the vehicle may increase emission of oxides of nitrogen.

Faulty sensor diagnostic codes

An Onboard Diagnostic system may log a P2202 code for issues related to the NOx sensor placed in Bank 1 – where the number one cylinder is located. In Bank 2, it may be a P2213.

Codes ranging from P2200 to P2225 are most often related to a fault detected with the NOx sensor.

What should you do if a sensor is faulty?

If the OBD system shows an issue with the nitrogen oxide sensor, there are two potential courses of action.

Repair the sensor. In case the part is defective, it may be possible to repair the sensor.
Replace the sensor. If cleaning does not work and you are unable to fix the fault, a full replacement may be needed.

To ensure a vehicle is running at its highest potential, a NOx sensor replacement would be the recommended course of action – giving a vehicle a new lease of life.