Schaeffler and VDL Groep are jointly exploring the development and production of a new generation of self-driving shuttles for public transport. The two family-owned companies will be showcasing a first demonstrator as well as all relevant automotive electrification and steering technology at the IAA Mobility show in Munich.
Technical innovations by Schaeffler can increase the range of electric vehicles or enable comfort features to be used without sacrificing range.
The new mechatronic rear-wheel steering system by Schaeffler has celebrated its series-production premiere, bringing enhanced agility on bends and superior inner-city maneuverability to the new electric SUV of a renowned vehicle manufacturer. By adding steering functionality to the rear axle, Schaeffler’s new technology improves handling in city traffic and makes the vehicle easier to park.
Schaeffler is demonstrating its development capabilities in the field of hydrogen-powered mobility with a new generation of metallic bipolar plates for PEM fuel cells. All fuel cell systems rely on bipolar plates. But the plates developed by Schaeffler feature a new design optimized for large-series production and leverage an innovative coating process for long fuel cell life.
This year is Schaeffler’s first appearance as an exhibitor at IAA Transportation, the world’s leading platform for the transportation and logistics industry. Trucks and buses make up only four percent of the global vehicle stock, but account for 40 percent of global CO2 emissions in road transport. At the same time, the demands in transportation and logistics continue to increase.