A new study has predicted that growth in demand for electric vehicles could provide the global semiconductor industry with an opportunity for increased sales.
IMS Research's report claimed that many of the devices that will lead to greater use of such electronic chips will be related to the power supply of such cars.
The company stated that the value of semiconductors in vehicles with hybrid and battery electric engines is greater than in conventional cars.
Jon Cropley, the author of the document, remarked: "Many other electric vehicle drivetrain applications require semiconductors including battery monitoring and control, DC/DC converters, AC/DC chargers and air conditioning converters."
IMS Research pointed out that there are several examples of hybrid and battery electric motors slated to enter production in 2010, such as the Nissan Leaf, the Chevrolet Volt and the BMW Mini EV.
Supermarket chain Sainsbury's recently launched an electric car recharging network at several of its larger London stores.