Power electronics is an enabling technology that is critical to the successful emergence of electric and hybrid vehicles. Common building blocks of miniaturised smart power elements, which can accommodate conventional or wide bandgap semiconductors and control electronics, will be required to meet a range of applications in electric and hybrid vehicles, including the generation, conversion and distribution of electricity around the vehicle. In parallel, with the impetus to produce lighter vehicles, designers are considering the use of thermoplastic composites within the vehicle structure. In this feasibility study, a performance comparison will be made between a power module manufactured using the new electronic packaging technology and embedded in a composite structure, to a module manufactured and packaged using conventional technology. The comparative assessment will include electrical performance, size and weight, and through-life costs.