Schaeffler’s Transformation in the Automotive Industry
As the automotive industry undergoes significant changes driven by electrification and intelligent technologies, traditional suppliers are facing challenges that require not only technological advancements but also a fundamental redefinition of their roles. The merger between Schaeffler Group and Vitesco Technologies provides a unique perspective on this transformation.
Schaeffler, known globally for its precision mechanical engineering, is now breaking new ground in both mechatronics and software. According to Matthias Zink, CEO of Powertrain & Chassis at Schaeffler AG, “We’ve evolved from being a solution implementer to a co-creator of technology—this shift has elevated Schaeffler to a true strategic partner for OEMs and given us a more proactive role in the industry’s transformation.”
At AUTO SHANGHAI 2025, Schaeffler’s first major public appearance since the merger, the company showcased a comprehensive suite of solutions for electrified and intelligent vehicles. Mr. Zink highlighted that the merger has significantly enhanced Schaeffler’s capabilities in software and electronics, allowing the company to present a deep integration of precision mechanics and mechatronic systems.
The technical synergies from the merger are already evident. Mr. Zink noted that the merger closed critical capability gaps, particularly in electronics and software, by combining the strengths of both companies. Schaeffler has expanded its product portfolio to include everything from foundational components to fully integrated electric drive systems and advanced charging solutions.
In the electrification field, Schaeffler has entered core areas such as power electronics and electric control units, while also advancing into adjacent fields like charging technologies and battery management systems. On the intelligence front, its reach now extends to smart actuators, steer-by-wire systems, vehicle access solutions, and software-defined vehicle (SDV) platforms, laying the groundwork for autonomous driving capabilities.
This dual identity as both a component supplier and a system solution provider allows Schaeffler to maintain its legacy strengths in precision engineering while exploring new opportunities in intelligent vehicle technologies. As Mr. Zink explained, “A few years ago, suppliers were largely passive. Today, we’re actively involved in early-stage product development and technical planning of OEM clients. We’re even contributing to our customers’ strategic roadmaps, aligning closely with their core demands.”
Schaeffler now engages in equal, in-depth dialogue with OEMs’ senior engineers, CTOs, and strategic decision-makers, a level of collaboration that has redefined the company’s role as a traditional supplier. Despite this transformation, Schaeffler maintains full control over the entire process—from R&D to production—a level of autonomy that is especially critical in today’s complex geopolitical climate.
The company has adopted a diversified technology strategy, championing multiple technological pathways. Mr. Zink cited China as an example, where the parallel development of range-extended electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and battery electric vehicles validates the flexibility of Schaeffler’s approach.
Schaeffler is also extending its core capabilities into emerging fields like humanoid robotics, drawing on its expertise in automotive mechatronics. Mr. Zink explained that the fusion of AI and mechatronics is crucial in both automotive and robotics applications.
The Chinese market plays a significant role in Schaeffler’s innovation and development. The company’s China headquarters in Anting town, Shanghai, serves as a natural innovation hub, allowing the local team to engage deeply with the industry value chain and respond quickly to evolving customer needs.
Mr. Zink emphasized that speed and quality must go hand in hand, particularly in electric powertrains, autonomous driving modules, and smart sensing technologies that are central to vehicle safety and customer trust. Schaeffler’s global R&D network ensures technological reliability and manufacturing standards, while its local team in China translates that into rapid market responsiveness.
For more insights, watch the full interview video and read the complete transcript.
