Powertrain & Chassis
Schaeffler delivers components and systems solutions for highly efficient powertrains and smart chassis systems across two-wheelers, passenger cars, and commercial vehicles. The overall product offering is covered by three of our eight product families: Transmission & Engine Components, Electric Control Units & Sensors, and Actuators.
Solutions for chassis, steering and body
In the chassis domain, Schaeffler offers mechanical components and mechatronic systems for steering, vehicle damping, and other chassis applications that enable partially automated driving. Products include ball screw drives, wheel bearings, the variable damping system (VDS), mechatronic rear axle steering, and by-wire technologies such as the hand-wheel actuator. Schaeffler develops intelligent sensor solutions for contactless vehicle access. As the Motion Technology Company, Schaeffler addresses increased demands on safety and comfort.
Rear-wheel steering (RWS) improves vehicle maneuverability in urban traffic, increases stability during lane changes, and facilitates parking by reducing the turning circle. Vehicles of all powertrain types benefit from RWS through enhanced agility, improved driving dynamics, and a more comfortable driving experience. The system requires low motor torque because of high efficiency during active operation. The core mechanical component is a planetary roller gear that efficiently transmits the required motor torque. A Schaeffler electric motor and sensors ensure precise steering manoeuvrers.
The hand-wheel actuator is a key by-wire technology for highly automated driving, replacing the mechanical connection between steering wheel and steering gear with electronic signal transmission. Based on a versatile platform, it integrates a Force Feedback Actuator for individually tuned steering feel. Its scalable axial adjustment and stow ability functions create more interior space and open up new design possibilities. Benefits include low energy consumption, extended adjustment ranges thanks to improved radial stiffness, high adjustment speed at low power consumption, and an optimal steering experience through a stiff and backlash-free telescopic shaft design.
Schaeffler offers various sensor solutions for contactless vehicle access. For example, the gesture sensor electronics for door handles enable passive detection and locking of vehicles through technologies such as Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Near Field Communication (NFC), and Ranging 24 GHz radar sensor technology. The sensor is based on a chipset that uses the proven doppler radar effect and includes an artificial intelligence algorithm that reliably recognizes hand movements or proximity. Detection parameters can be individually adapted. Due to the compact design, integration is easy.
Driven by innovation & systems intelligence
Based on holistic vehicle system expertise, Schaeffler’s innovative solutions make decisive contributions to reducing fuel consumption and emissions. At the same time, they optimize the acoustic vehicle behavior, extend maintenance intervals and service life, and enhance driving comfort as well as vehicle dynamics. With a high level of vertical integration and a global production and R&D footprint, Schaeffler ensures maximum customer focus and proximity.
Powertrain solutions
Schaeffler offers the full spectrum from components to complete systems for various hybrid drives as well as conventional internal combustion engines. From torsional dampers and clutches for hybrids and combustion engines, over hydraulic lash adjusters and cam phasing systems, to sensors, actuators, and control units. All solutions are designed to save weight, minimize installation space, reduce vibrations and noise, thereby increasing the efficiency of the powertrain.
Most internal combustion engines require a torsional vibration damper to ensure good NVH (Noise Vibration Harshness) behaviors and to control loads caused by the crankshaft's natural frequencies. Many modern engines, especially for hybrid applications, typically lack accessory drives. Particularly in range extender applications, vibrations must be minimized – this is where the spoke damper comes into play, which reduces torsional vibrations on the crankshaft. As it is arranged inside the crankshaft housing, it does not require friction based. Consequently, the spoke damper helps to reduce both friction and axial space requirements.
The NOx sensor enables robust and precise exhaust gas sensing, ensuring the efficient operation of diesel and gasoline exhaust aftertreatment systems. This sensor is an enabler to reduce emissions of modern combustion engines. It features high signal accuracy, stability, durability, and complies with current security standards. Its compact design offers diverse adaptation possibilities for different applications.
Cam phasing systems improve the quality of thermodynamic combustion processes, for example, through optimized valve timing across a wide load and speed range, especially in hybrid powertrains. High phasing speed and dynamics combined with an extended adjusting range enable modern, highly efficient combustion, benefiting the environment and vehicle performance alike.
The high performance computer (HPC) coordinates and monitors all essential subsystems of modern vehicles as a central electronic control unit. Data from sensors, actuators, and other domain control units – such as powertrain and braking systems – are captured and processed in real time. This enables the MCU to precisely control vehicle functions, thereby contributing significantly to safety, efficiency, and stable driving behavior. As the architectural backbone, it forms the basis for a modern, scalable E/E (electrical/electronic) architecture in commercial vehicles.
Schaeffler’s 48V battery management system is a smart all-in-one controller integrating battery management functions for small to medium-sized electric two- and three-wheelers, compliant with the latest cybersecurity requirements. The single PCB unites switching, current sensing, balancing, and monitoring functions and is compatible with internal or external BMS power supply. The system is scalable for different power levels, cells, and chemistries and supports multi-battery operation.
The FreeDrive generator converts your muscle power into electric energy and powers bikes without a chain. The innovative pedal generator is integrated into the bottom bracket and produces electricity as you pedal. This energy is transferred directly to the hub motor or stored in the battery for later use. It combines the pedal generator, motor, and drivetrain components in one.