Sensors play a significant role in this process as Schaeffler’s sensor portfolio continuously monitors vehicle motion and environmental conditions, enabling real-time data processing that supports advanced driver assistance systems, automated driving functions and active chassis control.

EV Battery Performance

Schaeffler’s all-solid-state battery (ASSB) technology represents a significant step forward in energy storage. By replacing conventional liquid electrolytes with solid electrolytes, ASSBs offer the potential for improved safety and higher energy density. The use of ultra-thin metallic lithium anodes can increase energy density significantly compared with today’s lithium-ion batteries, supporting lighter and more compact battery systems.

Beyond automotive applications, ASSBs have the potential to benefit from emerging mobility solutions, including humanoids, where reduced weight, improved safety and extended operating time are especially valuable. Schaeffler continues to advance these required technologies to bring next-generation solid-state batteries to market.

Schaeffler’s conventional battery module is a standard building block for EV energy storage that groups individual cells into a structured, scalable unit for assembly into a larger battery pack. It stores electrical energy, supports the electric drivetrain and makes battery systems easier to build, service and integrate.

Comprehensive Vehicle Control

Today’s automakers require integrated systems that intelligently coordinate vehicle functions across a centralized architecture. Schaeffler’s production-ready portfolio of technologies works together to manage energy, process vehicle data and coordinate critical vehicle functions. Through the integration of intelligent power electronics, battery management, zonal control and centralized computing, Schaeffler enables a scalable vehicle architecture capable of supporting over-the-air updates, advanced driver assistance systems, electrified propulsion and future software-enabled features.

“By integrating software, electronics and hardware, Schaeffler is helping accelerate the industry’s transition to centralized vehicle architectures and delivering future-ready solutions across a wide range of vehicle platforms,” said Jerry Dixon, head of Controls and Mechatronics & Modules, Schaeffler.

Integrated Power Electronics Platform

One highlight on the media tour was the SuperBox, combining the inverter, onboard charger, high-voltage DC booster and auxiliary power module (12V & 48V) into a single compact system. This innovative technology reduces the number of components compared to similar architectures.

By consolidating these technologies, the SuperBox reduces system complexity, minimizes weight, optimizes packaging space, enhances vehicle interconnectivity and enables software-defined functionality throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle.

Schaeffler’s next-generation inverter technology converts direct current (DC) from the battery into alternating current (AC) required by the electric motor. The inverter precisely manages motor speed, torque and regenerative braking to maximize energy efficiency, vehicle performance and battery utilization.

Integrated Powertrain Technologies

Schaeffler highlighted a variety of technologies in this area including bearings, actuators, electronic control units, e-axles and transmission components. Engineered to work together as complete systems, these technologies reduce complexity, improve efficiency, optimize installation space and shorten development cycles for passenger cars and commercial vehicles.