JCET’s Automotive Chip Back-end Manufacturing Base: Establishing an Intelligent and Lean Lighthouse Factory

Alongside the rapid acceleration of automotive electrification, intelligence, and connectivity, the automotive semiconductor market is currently experiencing a sustained and powerful growth trajectory. According to ‘Omdia's’ projections, the global automotive semiconductor market is poised to exceed $80 billion by 2025, with a CAGR of 15% from 2021 to 2025. At the same time, the market is setting increasingly high requirements for automotive-grade chip solutions, where dedicated production lines and zero-defect standards are quickly becoming basic prerequisites for industry excellence. In sync with market dynamics and customer needs, JCET Group introduced its Automotive Electronics Business Center in 2021, thereby maintaining a strong focus on the development of the automotive electronics sector. In early 2023, JCET established its holding subsidiary – JCET Automotive Electronics (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.

JCET Automotive Electronics (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. is set to receive a capital increase of RMB 4.4 billion, resulting in a registered capital of RMB 4.8 billion. It is aimed at expediting the construction of the initial phase of its automotive chip back-end manufacturing base. This state-of-the-art project represents a dedicated ‘automotive grade’ chip packaging and testing facility. It features a highly automated automotive-grade production line, driven by artificial intelligence and big data for optimal operational efficiency. JCET plans to leverage its full range of packaging technologies, in-depth knowledge of vehicle regulations, and quality certification system to build the company's first lighthouse factory in China.

Situated in the cutting-edge industrial hub of Lingang, Shanghai, the JCET Automotive Chip Back-end Manufacturing Base spans over 130,000 square meters, with a factory area of approximately 200,000 square meters. The initial phase focuses on 50,000 square meters of pristine cleanrooms, with production scheduled to commence in early 2025. This facility is expected to cater to a broad spectrum of automotive applications, including ADAS sensors, high-performance computing, interconnectivity, power modules and more. Its services will encompass traditional packaging (QFP/QFN, FBGA), advanced flip-chip packaging (FCBGA/FCCSP), high-density integration SiP, power-related packaging (SSC/DSC/TPak/HPD), and comprehensive system-level services tailored for global customer requirements.

From the outset of its design, the factory was based on a vision of high automation and intelligent lean production, with a strong commitment towards environmental responsibility and low-carbon emissions. Based on the pilot line (originally designed as an early-stage model), the factory will feature a new automated vertical storage system, an RGV automatic material transportation system, a full-range traceability system, and a reclaimed water recovery system, amongst other innovative hardware facilities. These hardware components then integrate with software features, such as AI technology, to collect and analyze the available manufacturing data. The result is a lighthouse factory that truly embodies the principles of intelligent manufacturing and lean production, and well-aligned with Industry 4.0 standards.

In parallel, the factory will establish an automotive-grade business management system to help adhere to the “zero defect” principle. This commitment ensures that customers benefit from robust production process controls and rigorous quality inspection processes, surpassing the stringent requirements of automotive-grade manufacturing.

Mr. Jung Gang, General Manager of JCET Automotive Business unit, commented; “Proactively anticipating customer needs and delivering highest performing product quality and services have always been at the core of JCET’s principles. The company stands ready to adapt to the diverse needs and evolving standards of our customers, as we create a flagship factory that demonstrates top-tier packaging and testing technologies while providing end-to-end services for the automotive industry value chain.”