News: Microelectronics
5 August 2025
Wolfspeed appoints Bret Zahn as general manager of Automotive business
Wolfspeed Inc of Durham, NC, USA — which makes silicon carbide (SiC) materials and power semiconductor devices — has appointed Bret Zahn as VP & general manager of its Automotive business as it continues to enhance its leadership team amid its strategic expansion in high-growth markets.
Wolfspeed says the appointment reflects its continued commitment to enabling the next generation of electric vehicles (EVs) through silicon carbide solutions. Zahn will report to chief business officer Cengiz Balkas, and will be based in Durham.
Zahn will lead the development and execution of Wolfspeed’s automotive product roadmap, aligning with the rapidly evolving needs of global EV makers and tier-1 suppliers. Working closely with engineering, R&D, and commercial teams, he will be responsible for driving innovation that meets the increasing demand for power efficiency, performance and scalability in electric mobility.
“The automotive industry is at an inflection point, and Wolfspeed is at the heart of the transformation,” reckons CEO Robert Feurle. “Our silicon carbide solutions are already powering some of the world’s most advanced EVs. Under Bret's leadership, we will deepen our partnerships with global automakers and deliver the next wave of innovation to expand our product offerings and meet the evolving needs of our customers.”
As the transition to electrified transportation accelerates, silicon carbide has emerged as a foundational technology for extending driving range, increasing energy efficiency, and reducing charging times, notes the firm. Wolfspeed reckons that its investment in vertically integrated, US-based SiC manufacturing — including its 200mm Mohawk Valley Fab and materials facility in North Carolina — positions it to meet automotive demand and offers a secure and scalable supply chain for customers.
Zahn has 35 years of global engineering and business management experience across various technology sectors. Previously he was VP & general manager of the Automotive Traction Solutions (ATS) business unit at onsemi, encompassing both SiC and IGBT bare die and power module sales, growing that business from IGBT-only revenue in 2020 to both IGBT and SiC revenue at the close of 2024. Wolfspeed reckons that his proven ability to navigate complex business structures and lead cross-functional teams will be instrumental as it seeks to capitalize on opportunities within the automotive sector.
“I am excited to join Wolfspeed during this transformative period and contribute to its mission of delivering advanced solutions in the automotive market,” says Zahn.
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