IGBTs and HV Super Junction MOSFETs, based on well-established and mature silicon technologies, will progressively be replaced by wide bandgap semiconductor materials in power applications. To optimize the future e-powertrain in battery electric vehicles (BEV) and plug in hybrid cars (PHEV) such new semiconductor materials are being introduced. Typical applications include traction inverters, power DCDC converters and onboard chargers, that will significantly benefit from the outstanding performance of wide bandgap materials. Key parameters are for example switching speed, the characteristic of unipolar device compared with bipolar IGBTs and higher maximum operating junction temperature. Silicon Carbide (SiC) and Gallium Nitride (GaN) are the 2 very promising technologies that based on their maturity and device characteristics will be key for power applications in industrial as well as automotive applications. According to their physical characteristics these devices can be mapped according to the key requirements of different applications. After more than 20 years of research and development AECQ101 grade Silicon Carbide (SiC) MOSFETs are now realizing strong penetration into the automotive market. Already millions of active devices (MOSFETs) are present, being designed in by very innovative early adopters. The advantage is realized by a total cost of ownership approach, considering not only the device cost but the total cost including increased mileage, downsizing of cooling systems, weight saving as well as strongly decreased form factors amongst other benefits. Also, legislation resp bonus programs that sponsor higher efficiency push the introduction of wide band gap semiconductors. Inherent advantages of the SiC technology will be explained and how these advantages benefit automotive applications. As silicon carbide is relatively new for automotive, an overview on manufacturing strategy and vertical integration will also be explained, to provide to the market devices that are compliant to the stringent requirements coming from car manufacturers.