The hybrid electric and pure electric vehicle (HEV/EV) analog semiconductor demand will quadruple from 2011 to $2bn in 2018, according to a new report from Strategy Analytics.

The report, "Analog Semiconductor to Get Market Boost from HEV/EV Growth," reveals that 92% of the semiconductors required for HEV/EV powertrain control are analog integrated circuits (ICs).

The automotive analog semiconductor demand will be pushed up by HEV and EV powertrain control over this period at a projected market value compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23%.

Power and non-power analog circuits are estimated to make up 78% and 14%, respectively, of the combined semiconductor market value from HEV and EV powertrain control produced today.

The majority of the power analog demand will be accounted by high power insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) used in AC traction motor inverters, the report said.

Strategy Analytics Global Automotive Practice Vice President Chris Webber said digital logic will provide the brains for HEV/EVs drive, but analog semiconductor chips will provide the bulk of the interface, measurement, protection and muscle-power for control of these alternative powertrains, creating significant new business opportunities for analog IC vendors.