Volkswagen chooses Schaeffler as EV technology supplier

Global automotive and industrial technology supplier Schaeffler Group is amongst 60 vendors from a pool of 4000, which Volkswagen Group is inviting to join its future automotive supply tracks (FAST) programme.

A few years ago, Schaeffler began carrying out basic research into the hybridization and electric mobility and it now has an extensive product range extending from 48-volt hybrid modules through to powerful high-voltage drive concepts, such as electric drive axles.

It is well-known for its automotive aftermarket bearing, clutch, and transmission components sold under the LUK, INA, FAG, and Ruville brands, but Schaeffler says it’s technological partnership with Volkswagen is decades long.

The two German companies have collaboratively worked on engine, transmission and chassis systems projects.

Schaeffler is one of only a few suppliers to be included in Volkswagen’s FAST programme and is intimately involved in a strategic dialogue with the Wolfsburg-based car manufacturer at an earlier stage.

During the selection process, criteria such as strategic relevance, performance, and innovative strength played a significant role in Schaeffler securing its selection.

Volkswagen uses the FAST initiative to ensure its most critical suppliers are involved in a strategic dialogue at an early stage.

This initial exchange allows the identification of common fields of activity so that product innovations can be customised and implemented efficiently and quickly.

“This is confirmation for Schaeffler that it has an optimal position in the automotive future as well as increasingly sophisticated drive architectures,” says Schaeffler AG Automotive chief executive officer Matthias Zink

In the future, a comparison will be carried out at least once per year, during which Volkswagen representatives will discuss their strategies with the relevant FAST partner to identify potential areas of cooperation.