Automotive supplier Schaeffler has acquired 51% of the shares of electric motor manufacturer Compact Dynamics from SEMIKRON International. Schaeffler and SEMIKRON have also agreed to cooperate on the development of power electronics systems and the integration of power electronics components. Compact Dynamics, based in Starnberg, Germany, specializes in lightweight electric drive concepts in small volume… Read more »
Add another item to the list of neat tricks that cars will soon be learning: the ability to maneuver sideways in order to slip into tight parking spaces. The OmniSteer project, funded by Germany’s Ministry of Education and Research, aims to develop a vehicle with “a lateral and transverse guidance system capable of performing orthogonal,… Read more »
Schaeffler has developed a new P2 (parallel, two-clutch) high-voltage hybrid module -designed to fit between the internal combustion engine and transmission – that can transmit engine torques of up to 800 N·m (590 lb-ft) without having to incorporate an expensive clutch. The P2 consists of an electric machine and an automated disconnect clutch, which is… Read more »
Modern automobiles are complex beasts, with numerous subsidiary systems that consume energy. In an EV, more energy consumption means reduced range, so it can be well worthwhile to study more efficient ways to power the various accessories. One of these accessory systems is assisted steering, which reduces the physical effort required for the driver to… Read more »
The Schaeffler Group, a multinational conglomerate that makes a range of electric drivetrain components, fielded an EV at July’s E-Car Rally in Montafon, Austria, held on the dream roads of the Alps. The STEP2, Schaeffler’s third entry in this yearly event, is an EV with a drive from the Schaeffler subsidiary IDAM and a two-speed… Read more »
In-wheel electric drive systems are a hot topic these days. Mounting the electric motor and power electronics within a wheel assembly can improve efficiency, save space and give automakers more flexibility in body design. This week, two leaders in the field introduced new in-wheel offerings. Protean Electric announced the debut of its production in-wheel motor… Read more »
Jeff Hemphill talks eAxles, two-speed transmissions, in-wheel motors and more. For multinational companies with thousands of employees, collaborating can be a challenge. In 2011, the Schaeffler Group found that divisions from their three product brands – INA, LuK and FAG – were working on different electrification and renewable topics without really talking to each… Read more »