Know-how perfectly linked
The products of motion technology company Schaeffler are classified in eight product families according to their special relationship with motion. They encompass the entire range of motion – from electrified drive systems to smart actuator and sensor solutions to sustainable technologies.
“We strive to become a technology company that shapes motion in its total diversity in a way that’s focused on the future. Not only our extensive technology portfolio, especially in terms of manufacturing, supports us in that endeavor, but so do our newly aligned eight product families encompassing all the business activities of our four divisions. We’re going to leverage our cross-divisional synergy potential even more so than before and occupy forward-looking fields,” says Schaeffler’s CEO Klaus Rosenfeld.
“Schaeffler stands for innovative prowess and a pioneering spirit, and drawing on that know-how is going to decisively help shape forward-looking technologies. We aim to develop products that make motion smarter, cleaner, and safer. We succeed in doing so with high-level development excellence that has been making us strong for decades. The eight product families enable us to interlink know-how from the development areas and to transfer it to new business fields,” adds Chief Technology Officer Uwe Wagner.
The following pages will provide you with an overview of product highlights from the E-Mobility, Powertrain & Chassis, Vehicle Lifetime Solutions, and Bearings & Industrial Solutions Divisions.
The eight product families at a glance
Guide Motion
Guide motion is all about guiding and directing motion. Highly developed bearing systems and linear guides help with this. These stand for technically sophisticated components, such as those found in, for example, gearboxes, which require the highest precision. Thanks to continuous improvements, they increase efficiency, reduce wear and minimize friction. Our bearing systems are particularly durable and, for instance, help to minimize the fuel consumption of vehicles.
Division: Bearings & Industrial Solutions
Adjusted taper roller bearing support
What it is
All forces generated by the wind act directly on the rotor shaft bearings of wind turbines. These bearings have outer diameters of up to four meters (13 feet) and are exposed to highly dynamic loads and operating conditions throughout their 20- to 30-year service life.
What it does
As wind turbines become larger, the power density in the drivetrain increases. Nevertheless, they must operate efficiently and reliably. Therefore, adjusted bearing arrangements are increasingly being used to ensure the rotor bearings of new multi-megawatt turbines are as compact as possible. The tapered roller bearings guide the rotors, which can be up to 250 meters (820 feet) in size, with low friction and high precision.
Where it is used
Wind turbines
“With our modular tapered roller bearing kit, advanced design and validation tools, and adherence to the highest manufacturing standards, we improve bearing reliability and optimize the entire drivetrain in collaboration with our customers.”
Andreas Bierlein, Head of Rotor Bearing Application Technology
Division: Bearings & Industrial Solutions
Integrated engine bearing
What it is
The integrated engine bearing is a heavy-duty, reliable bearing system designed for high-temperature requirements on the high-pressure shaft of an aircraft engine.
What it does
The design of engine bearings has evolved from catalog types to complex, highly integrated systems. Schaeffler offers ready-to-install bearing systems through the integration of adjacent components. These systems reduce the number of powertrain components, resulting in lower accumulated tolerances and overall costs – significant benefits for engine manufacturers.
Where it is used
Fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters
“Rolling bearings for aviation applications must withstand extreme temperatures, demanding load profiles, and high speeds. These products are subjected to rigorous quality testing to ensure their reliability and performance. The design and manufacture of each bearing is customized to the specific application.”
Daniel Schmidt, Head of Product Development Schaeffler Aerospace
Division: Bearings & Industrial Solutions
VoltShield-P
What it is
Electric vehicles use compact electric axles as drive units. The bearings installed in these axles are susceptible to damage from circular currents, which can lead to premature failure. Remedial measures, such as the use of ceramic balls, can be costly or inaccessible. With VoltShield-P, Schaeffler has launched a robust and cost-effective solution to solve this problem.
What it does
The ball bearing is overmolded on the outer ring with a plastic layer approximately 1 mm (0.04 in) thick. This layer disrupts the electrical circuit between the rotor shaft, bearing, and housing, thereby preventing the formation of harmful circular currents. Additionally, the bearing meets all requirements for use in electric axles, including suitability for high speeds, wear resistance, and load capacity. This unique combination has garnered significant interest from customers. Production of bearings for initial series projects is currently underway.
Where it is used
Passenger cars and light commercial vehicles
“VoltShield-P from Schaeffler’s e-Bearing family is a high-speed bearing for electric axles that offers our customers all the features they need for reliable protection against current-related bearing damage. The thermosetting layer ensures enhanced durability compared to conventional thermoplastic overmolding. This indicates that VoltShield-P can be utilized in situations where competitors must resort to more expensive solutions using ceramic rolling elements.”
Dr. Benedikt Neubauer, Head of Product Group Ball Bearings
Transmit Motion
Transmit motion refers to the transmission of movement. For example, when a rotation becomes a linear movement. Mechanics play a major role here – one of our strengths. With highly reliable couplings, dampers, rocker arms or ball screws and gearboxes, we guarantee not only smooth but also efficient transmission of movements.
Division: Powertrain & Chassis
Torsional vibration damper
What it is
Schaeffler’s torsional vibration damper is not integrated on but directly inside the crankcase of an internal combustion engine (ICE). It absorbs the vibrations of the crankshaft.
What it does
Due to the housing integration, the product reduces the required engine space and friction as well as noise emissions of the ICE.
Where it is used
Passenger cars (plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, ICEs)
“Due to its metal construction, the torsional vibration damper can easily be integrated in the crankcase. Unlike conventional torsional vibration dampers made of elastomers it’s clearly more resistant against thermal influences.”
Jürgen Maier, Head of Testing of the Dual-Mass Flywheel Product Group
Division: Powertrain & Chassis
Ball screw drive (BSD)
What it is
All BSD versions translate the rotary motion of a spindle or nut into a linear motion. Using integrated balls as rolling elements, the rotary motion is converted in a slip-free and nearly frictionless manner. Ball screw drives are sophisticated components that are going to play an important role for autonomous driving. Schaeffer has produced more than 140 million BSD variants since 2007.
What it does
Ball screw drives from Schaeffler are primarily used in braking systems such as brake boosters for electric vehicles, electric parking brakes, and electromechanical brakes, or in steering systems where they ensure maneuverability, safety, and ride comfort. As central mechanical components of electromechanical power steering systems, BSDs play a key role in lane-keeping and parking-assist systems. High efficiency, low energy requirement, and outstanding noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) performance of this actuator component reduce the energy consumption of a vehicle and enhance its smoothness which is important particularly with low-noise electric vehicles.
Where it is used
Passenger cars, light trucks
“The next generation of vehicles will be fitted with electromechanical service brakes that brake each individual wheel intelligently and quietly and will thus make a further contribution to brake-by-wire technology. We are already preparing for the start of production.”
Timo Schmidt, Head of the Chassis Solutions Business Unit at the Schaeffler Group
Control Motion
Control motion is about measuring and controlling motion. In developing our state-of-the-art control units and sensors, we focus on getting the most out of every energy source. These technologies enable precise control, improve energy management and ensure smooth operation. With a focus on efficiency, reliability and future-proof solutions, we ensure optimal resource utilization and longevity, while also taking into account increasing demands for cyber security.
Division: Powertrain & Chassis
Electric Drive Control Unit (eDCU)
What it is
The Electric Drive Control Unit (eDCU) is an innovative solution for electrified two-wheelers. It is part of Schaeffler’s new product portfolio for two-wheelers and powersports, which has been integrated through the merger with Vitesco Technologies.
What it does
From driver information to motor control, the integrated eDCU controls the entire powertrain, encompassing both the inverter function and supplementary vehicle functions. The control unit was developed specifically for the two-wheeler segment. Among its advantages is intelligent multi-battery management, which makes it suitable for systems with exchangeable batteries. The eDCU offers all these features in a compact and lightweight design.
Where it is used
Small to medium-sized electric and hybrid two- and three-wheelers
“Similar to how the human brain controls actions and muscles execute them, the electric drive control unit (eDCU) acts as both the brain and the muscles of an electrified powertrain.”
Sergio Aragon Miguel, Innovation and Platform Development 2-Wheelers and Powersports Business Unit
Division: Powertrain & Chassis/Vehicle Lifetime Solutions
NOx sensor
What it is
The NOx sensor is installed in diesel vehicles, monitoring and controlling nitrogen oxide emissions.
What it does
The NOx sensor precisely measures nitrogen oxide emissions for efficient exhaust aftertreatment and ensures that vehicles comply with environmental standards. It consists of a ceramic sensor element and a sensor control unit. The sensor exposed to the exhaust gas communicates with the control unit via the CAN bus.
Where it is used
Passenger cars and commercial vehicles such as trucks and buses
Generate Motion
Generate motion is all about creating movement. Energy becomes motion – hydraulic, electric or magnetic. To exploit the full potential, you need expertise in mechanics, electronics, software and systems engineering. And this is where our strengths lie. Proof: our innovative actuators for various applications in the automotive and industrial sectors.
Division: Bearings & Industrial Solutions
Electromechanical smart actuator CAHB-2xS
What it is
The CAHB series of compact electromechanical linear actuators from Ewellix includes miniature linear actuators designed for operation in demanding environments. The CAHB-2xS is a new, intelligent version from the CAHB-2x product family.
What it does
Agricultural machinery must be highly productive and reliable, often operating under harsh conditions and around the clock. This necessitates dependable product solutions that are effectively protected against environmental influences such as dirt, impacts, stone chips, dryness, and moisture. The smart CAHB2xS electromechanical actuator is an ideal solution for replacing hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders in various applications due to its unique properties. In contrast to hydraulic systems, electromechanical actuators offer enhanced efficiency and require no maintenance. These components ensure high-precision motion control and positioning, enhancing the cost-efficiency and environmental sustainability of the machinery into which they are incorporated.
Where it is used
Offroad, construction machinery, combine harvesters
“Linear actuators such as the CAHB-2xS with integrated control unit are powerful, efficient, compact, and robust. They enable OEMs to develop autonomous vehicles that perform their tasks smoothly, cleanly, and sustainably, even in harsh environments.”
Francois Ducourant, Global Business Development Manager – Mobile Machinery
Division: Powertrain & Chassis
iFlexAir
What it is
The iFlexAir is a variable valvetrain system for commercial vehicles, which evolved from an electrohydraulic valvetrain originally designed for the passenger car sector.
What it does
The electrohydraulic system is designed to reduce the CO₂ emissions of diesel vehicles. In hydrogen combustion engines, it boosts efficiency by six percent. At the same time, it significantly reduces raw NOx emissions. The system’s modular design allows it to be used with different engine designs without necessitating extensive modifications and enables easy integration into existing engines.
Where it is used
Commercial vehicles
“Schaeffler offers solutions for more sustainable mobility in the heavy-duty sector as well: for example, our iFlexAir variable valvetrain system reduces the CO₂ emissions in diesel commercial vehicles by up to five percent.”
Peter Biegert, System Engineering Heavy Duty
Division: Powertrain & Chassis
Rear-wheel steering system
What it is
Schaeffler’s rear-wheel steering is a highly complex mechatronic system. It enhances the agility of vehicles on turns and improves their stability and safety at high speeds.
What it does
The rear-wheel steering system is designed to significantly reduce the turning radius of vehicles, making them easier to maneuver in tight spaces. It enhances driving dynamics and reduces tire wear through a more balanced distribution of steering force, which is particularly advantageous for heavy electric vehicles with a longer wheelbase. The planetary roller gear contributes to the system’s reduced weight and compact design.
Where it is used
Passenger cars and light commercial vehicles
“Schaeffler’s rear-wheel steering system is equipped with a planetary roller gear, providing a distinct technological advantage that distinguishes it from similar products offered by competitors. The high-precision mechanical system converts the rotary motion of the electric motor into steering movements of the push rod with low friction and high efficiency.”
Philip Wurzberger, Product Development Rear-Wheel Steering System
Power Motion
Power motion stands for the conversion and provision of electrical energy in the form required for locomotion. With our comprehensive expertise in the field of power electronics, we ensure that every form of movement is executed as precisely and powerfully as possible. This enables us to leverage further efficiency potential in the powertrain of tomorrow.
Division: E-Mobility
DC/DC converter
What it is
A DC/DC converter is an electronic device that converts direct current (DC) from one voltage level to another one, e.g., from 400 to 12 volts.
What it does
Battery-electric, hybrid-electric, or other electrical systems typically use several on-board power supply systems with various voltages. A high-voltage battery often operates with 400 or 800 volts. Consumers such as electronic control units, in-vehicle electronics, or lights require only 12 or 48 volts. A DC/DC converter transforms high voltage to low voltage and ensures that all devices are supplied with the right voltage.
Where it is used
Passenger cars and light trucks
Division: E-Mobility
Inverter Platform (EPF4)
What it is
EPF4 is an inverter for electrified vehicles consisting of various power modules.
What it does
In electrified vehicles, EPF4 converts direct current from the battery into alternating current for the electric motor. Conversely, EPF4 “turns” the flow of energy around – from the motor back to the battery – during braking events – enabling recuperation of braking energy. With more than 70 individual modules, EPF4 can be flexibly adjusted to various vehicle concepts such as fully electric and hybrid electric vehicles, and range extenders. The individual modules are continually updated to reflect state-of-the-art technologies, for instance with silicon-carbide semiconductors, which increases vehicle range and cuts carbon emissions.
Where it is used
Autonomous vehicles, passenger cars, and light commercial vehicles
“The EPF4 is the key to success in a highly dynamic market environment thanks to its maximum performance efficiency and unique modularity.”
Bernhard Kalkmann, Head of Base Development Inverters
Drive Motion
Drive motion is about getting people and goods moving. Intelligent components, systems and services convert electrical power into mechanical power. Our electrified drive systems and innovative mobility concepts make the mobility of tomorrow more sustainable and efficient.
Division: E-Mobility
Highly integrated axle drive (EMR4)
What it is
The EMR4 (4th generation electronics/ motor/reduction gear) is a flexible and scalable platform for purely electric drives. It is also known as a 3-in-1 drive because it consists of an electric motor, a reduction gear, and power electronics in one unit.
What it does
The EMR4 converts electrical power from the battery into torque that drives the car. This highly integrated axle drive provides full torque from the beginning. It is very compact and highly efficient with an efficiency level exceeding 90 percent. This allows customers to integrate the EMR4 into many different vehicle platforms and increase the vehicle’s range with a given battery.
Where it is used
Passenger cars and light commercial vehicles
Division: E-Mobility
MultiMode hybrid transmission (MMH)
What it is
An innovative hybrid transmission with electric DNA. The platform allows for the implementation of either a full hybrid or a plug-in hybrid using the same basic architecture.
What it does
The new MMH expands the Schaeffler portfolio and helps reduce CO₂ emissions in passenger car powertrains. It allows for the serial and parallel operation of the electric drive and internal combustion engine. Three operating modes are possible: purely electric driving using the battery, electric driving with energy supplied by the internal combustion engine, and direct mechanical drive by the internal combustion engine within efficient load ranges. This versatility enables maximum efficiency combined with high driving comfort.
Where it is used
Passenger car powertrains in the volume segment
“The MultiMode hybrid transmission is an alternative to fully electric vehicles and can be offered flexibly as a full hybrid or plug-in hybrid worldwide. For end customers, the transmission provides an electric driving experience with maximum range and minimum consumption.”
Thomas Eckenfels, Chief Engineer
Energize Motion
Energize motion means providing energy. Making motion possible. To further reduce the proportion of fossil fuels in the future, we are focusing on electrified movement and resource-efficient energy production. As part of our new offering, we are focusing, among other things, on hydrogen and battery technology.
Division: E-Mobility
Battery Management System (BMS)
What it is
A battery management system is a crucial component in modern batteries, especially those in electric vehicles and energy storage systems. The system monitors and controls various aspects of the battery to optimize its safety, service life, and performance.
What it does
The BMS monitors parameters such as voltage, current, and temperature in order to prevent overcharging and overheating. It ensures that all cells are equally charged and discharged, thus maximizing battery efficiency and service life. The safety features in place are designed to protect against short circuits and overcurrent situations. The BMS communicates with other systems in the vehicle or device to report the operating status of the battery and take appropriate action. The system performs diagnostics and can detect faults that require maintenance or repair. Overall, the BMS ensures that the battery operates safely, efficiently, and durably.
Where it is used
Electric vehicles and energy storage systems that use high-voltage batteries
Division: E-Mobility
Indirect cooling module (ICS)
What it is
The indirect cooling module is a highly integrated system designed for indirect heat distribution in vehicles with the help of heat pumps.
What it does
The ICS provides a highly integrated secondary circuit system that can control the entire heat distribution process in a vehicle via coolant. This system allows propane to be used as a coolant, which is an inexpensive, sustainable alternative with favorable thermodynamic properties. The ICS facilitates effective cooling with the limited amount of propane that can be used in the system.
Where it is used
Electrified passenger cars
Sustain Motion
Sustain motion is all about maintaining movement. This reaffirms our commitment to a sustainable future. Our aim is to keep products and systems in motion for as long as possible so that they become part of the circular economy. With our digital services, intelligent monitoring solutions and repair and maintenance solutions, we are able to significantly extend the life cycle of our products.
Division: Bearings & Industrial Solutions
OPTIME Ecosystem
What it is
The OPTIME Condition Monitoring system is a comprehensive condition monitoring and smart lubrication solution in a single package. It is cost-effective, wireless, scalable, and suitable for a wide range of drive systems.
What it does
Maintaining operational efficiency in the industrial sector is a significant challenge. Maintenance teams play a pivotal role in ensuring unplanned downtime is minimized. OPTIME facilitates predictive maintenance, thereby effectively and sustainably minimizing machine downtime and maintenance costs.
Where it is used
Industrial machinery and plant engineering, drive technology, auxiliary units (pumps, motors, fans)
“The OPTIME Ecosystem allows our customers to plan for the future. They can simply check their cell phone to see which machine or lubrication point needs their attention next.”
Thomas Joeris, Senior Expert Sales Consultant, Schaeffler Lifetime Solutions
Division: Vehicle Lifetime Solutions
E-Axle RepSystem
What it is
Electric axles are key drive components in battery electric vehicles and are defined by their performance and efficiency. They are complex systems consisting of many components. Repair solutions are available for both the “transmission” (RepSystem G) and the “electric motor” (RepSystem M) systems.
What it does
The number of electric vehicles is growing steadily. These vehicles, too, experience occasional powertrain damage. Schaeffler offers a sustainable solution: repairing the electric motor and transmission instead of replacing the entire electric axle. These repair kits are designed to replace the main wear components and contain the necessary mounting accessories, plus a technical description.
Where it is used
Passenger cars and light commercial vehicles, garages
“E-mobility is more than just products; it’s a promise of sustainable mobility. This means that suitable repair solutions must be available at every stage of an electric axle’s product life cycle. With its repair solutions for electric axles, VLS offers the market a solution that reflects the vehicle’s current value.”
Stephan Niese, Director Global Product Management e-Powertrain/e-Mobility
Division: Vehicle Lifetime Solutions
REPXPERT – Service for garages
What it is
REPXPERT is the service brand of Schaeffler’s Vehicle Lifetime Solutions division. It covers all garage-relevant services, including those for Schaeffler products and beyond.
What it does
REPXPERT supports workshops in their day-to-day service activities – from parts identification and efficient repairs to deepening expert knowledge and providing updates on new technologies. This encompasses a broad spectrum of digital and analog services, including a global online portal, an app, technical training, direct contact with experts via phone and WhatsApp, and a bonus program. Through partnerships, REPXPERT expands the Schaeffler product range and supports workshops in areas beyond parts repair, such as digitalization and marketing.
Where it is used
Garages, parts distributors, vocational schools, cooperation partners
“The REPXPERT service offering is a win-win situation: Garages are empowered, and they make an informed decision to choose Schaeffler products in an increasingly competitive market. Our strong service focus has given us a global presence in garages, which now serves as the basis for new business models.”
Sven Olev Müller, Head of Schaeffler REPXPERT
