Schaeffler Advances Electric Axis, Hybrid Technology, and Software for Future Mobility at IAA Mobility 2025

Schaeffler Drives Innovation With New Hybrid, Autonomous, and Software Solutions

September 3, 2025

Munich – Automotive and industrial supplier Schaeffler is poised to showcase a broad spectrum of advancements at IAA Mobility 2025, signaling a commitment to shaping the future of the automotive industry. The company’s focus centers on providing complete systems for hybrid vehicles, advancements in automated driving capabilities, and a new software-defined vehicle platform.

Expanding Hybrid Vehicle Solutions

Schaeffler is presenting solutions catering to diverse hybrid architectures, including plug-in, mild, and range-extended hybrid vehicles. A key development is a dedicated hybrid transmission integrating power electronics, cooling systems, a coupling, and a parking lock-an all-in-one unit designed for both full and plug-in hybrid applications in serial and parallel configurations. The company is also showcasing cutting-edge damper technologies and electromechanical camshaft adjusters for enhanced hybrid performance.

In a move towards sustainable fuels, Schaeffler has developed a flex fuel sensor capable of accurately measuring ethanol content and fuel temperature, paving the way for wider adoption of decarbonized fuels. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, biofuels could displace approximately 25% of gasoline and diesel fuel by 2030.

Steering Towards autonomous Driving

Acknowledging the increasing prevalence of automated driving,Schaeffler is actively developing technologies for both Level 3 (partial automation) and Level 4 (high automation) vehicles. Projections estimate that 10% of vehicles will operate at Level 4 and 15% at Level 3 by 2035.The company is addressing this shift with advanced damper and steering systems, notably introducing new steer-by-wire solutions.

The Hand wheel Actuator (HWA) is a standout innovation, integrating force feedback utilizing a magnetorheological brake and an optimized Brushless DC (BLDC) motor. This system aims to deliver a refined steering experience while minimizing the use of materials like copper and rare earth elements, and even facilitating alternative operational concepts such as joystick control.

Software-Defined Vehicle Platform

recognizing the growing importance of software in modern vehicles, Schaeffler is introducing an electrical/electronic (e/e) platform. This platform consists of a Master Control Unit (MCU) and a Zone Controller Unit (ZCU), designed to centralize vehicle functions within a software-defined architecture.

Component	Function
Zone Controller Unit (ZCU)	Connects, controls, and supplies power to control units, sensors, and actuators within a specific vehicle zone.
Master Control Unit (MCU)	Processes data related to driving strategy, charging, thermal management, energy management, and by-wire systems; meets ASIL-D safety standards.

Did You Know? ASIL-D represents the highest level of Automotive Safety integrity Level, ensuring stringent safety requirements are met in critical vehicle systems.

Schaeffler’s Press Conference Details

Schaeffler will hold a press conference on September 8, 2025, from 10:20 AM to 10:40 AM (CEST) at Stand B40, Hall B3 of IAA Mobility Munich. The conference will feature presentations by Klaus Rosenfeld (CEO), Matthias Zink (Powertrain & Chassis), and Thomas Stierle (E-Mobility), and will also be available via livestream.

Pro Tip: Following industry press conferences like Schaeffler’s can provide valuable insights into emerging trends and future technology roadmaps.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Automotive Technology

Schaeffler’s presentation at IAA Mobility underscores the accelerating conversion of the automotive industry. The company’s strategic positioning as a systems supplier-ranging from electric axles to hybrid transmissions and software solutions-highlights its ambition to be a key partner for automotive manufacturers. The challenge for Schaeffler, as with manny technology providers, will be to successfully translate these technological demonstrations into scalable, mass-market production solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Schaeffler’s Innovations

• What is steer-by-wire technology? Steer-by-wire replaces the customary mechanical linkage between the steering wheel and the wheels with an electronic system, offering greater flexibility and control.
• What are the benefits of a hybrid transmission? Hybrid transmissions improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions by combining the benefits of internal combustion engines and electric motors.
• What is the role of the Master Control Unit (MCU)? The MCU serves as the central processing unit for critical vehicle functions, ensuring safe and efficient operation.
• How does Schaeffler contribute to sustainable fuels? Schaeffler’s flex fuel sensor enables the use of decarbonized fuels, like ethanol blends, promoting a more sustainable automotive ecosystem.
• What is the ASIL-D safety standard? ASIL-D is the highest level of automotive safety integrity, ensuring the robustness and reliability of safety-critical systems.

What are your thoughts on the future of automated driving?

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What specific advancements in Schaeffler’s electric axle designs enable support for higher voltage systems (800V and beyond)?

Pioneering Electric Drive Solutions

Schaeffler is showcasing significant advancements in electric mobility at IAA Mobility 2025, focusing on its core competencies in electric axles, hybrid powertrains, and the crucial role of automotive software. the company’s presence highlights a strategic shift towards providing extensive systems for the future of transportation, moving beyond traditional component supply. This commitment is particularly relevant as the automotive industry accelerates its transition to electric and hybrid vehicles.

The Next Generation Electric Axle

Schaeffler’s latest electric axle designs are engineered for increased efficiency, power density, and scalability. Key features include:

Enhanced Power Output: New designs support higher voltage systems (800V and beyond) enabling faster charging and increased range for electric vehicles (evs).

Integrated Thermal Management: Advanced cooling systems optimize performance and extend component lifespan, crucial for high-performance electric drivetrains.

Modular Architecture: A modular approach allows for customization to fit a wide range of vehicle platforms,from compact city cars to larger SUVs and light commercial vehicles.this versatility is a key differentiator in the rapidly evolving EV market.

Reduced Weight: Utilizing lightweight materials and optimized designs, Schaeffler is reducing the overall weight of the electric axle, contributing to improved vehicle efficiency.

Hybrid Powertrain Innovations: Bridging the Gap

Recognizing the continued importance of hybrid vehicles as a transitional technology, Schaeffler is presenting advancements in its hybrid powertrain solutions. These innovations aim to maximize efficiency and reduce emissions while offering a cost-effective pathway to electrification.

P2 and P3 Hybrid Modules: Schaeffler’s P2 and P3 hybrid modules offer flexible integration options for various vehicle architectures. These modules combine an electric motor, transmission, and power electronics into a compact unit.

Highly Integrated Hybrid Systems: Focus on integrating the electric motor directly into the transmission, maximizing efficiency and minimizing packaging space.

Advanced Clutch Technology: New clutch designs improve shift quality and efficiency in hybrid powertrains, enhancing the driving experience.

48V Technology Expansion: Schaeffler is expanding its portfolio of 48V hybrid solutions, offering a cost-effective entry point to electrification for a wider range of vehicles.

Software-Defined Mobility: The Core enabler

Schaeffler emphasizes that automotive software is no longer just a supporting element but a core enabler of future mobility. The company is investing heavily in developing software solutions that optimize the performance and functionality of its hardware components.

Drive-by-Wire Systems: Schaeffler is developing advanced drive-by-wire systems that enhance vehicle control and safety.

predictive Maintenance Algorithms: utilizing data analytics and machine learning, Schaeffler’s software can predict potential component failures, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing downtime.

over-the-Air (OTA) Updates: Software updates delivered over-the-air allow for continuous improvement and feature enhancements throughout the vehicle’s lifecycle.

Vehicle Dynamics Control: Complex software algorithms optimize vehicle handling and stability, enhancing the driving experience.

Functional safety (FuSa): Schaeffler prioritizes functional safety in its software growth, ensuring the reliability and safety of its systems.

Schaeffler’s Response to Industry Challenges

recent announcements regarding Schaeffler’s restructuring and job cuts (as reported by Fränkischer Tag https://www.fraenkischertag.de/lokales/hoechstadt-herzogenaurach/wirtschaft/stellenabbau-schaeffler-herzogenaurach-neue-details-bekannt-art-470965) underscore the need for strategic adaptation in the automotive supply chain. The company’s focus on high-growth areas like electric mobility and software solutions is a direct response to these challenges, aiming to secure its position as a leading technology partner for the automotive industry.The restructuring is intended to streamline operations and focus resources on these key areas.

Benefits of Schaeffler’s Technologies

Increased Vehicle Range: Optimized electric drive systems and efficient hybrid powertrains contribute to extended driving ranges.

Reduced Emissions: Electrification and hybridization technologies significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Enhanced Performance: advanced software and hardware solutions deliver improved vehicle performance and handling.

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