Motorsport has always been a driver of developments that later make their way into production vehicles – this is also true in Formula E where Schaeffler is gaining extensive findings through its successful commitment. The technology group uses them to advance innovative developments for electrified and networked mobility for tomorrow.

Having partnered with ABT Sportsline since the 2014/2015 Formula E inaugural season, Schaeffler underlines its position as a pioneer in electric mobility as well. Since the technical regulations have opened up new opportunities, specialists from Schaeffler have been involved in the development of the powertrain. The title win in the previous season is proof of the work accomplished so far. Following Audi’s entry into Formula E with a factory-backed commitment, Schaeffler is now contributing its know-how to the technology cooperation with the premium brand which has been agreed for three years up to and including the 2019/2020 season. The partnership includes the joint work on the electric motor, transmission, suspension and power electronics for the powertrain.

Just like Schaeffler has been contributing its technological expertise to Formula E since day one, the technology group has been and intends to remain a pioneer in electric mobility for the road as well. That is why, in the more recent past, the company has doubled the size of its development team for the electrification of the powertrain. But even today, Schaeffler – also inspired by the technology transfer from the race track – is offering a wide range of products for electric mobility and the electrification of powertrains using internal combustion engines. In parallel, the number of customer projects and production orders in the Automotive Division is steadily increasing in the field of electric mobility. “In Formula E, we’re able to explore extremes. This helps us in many respects – in terms of general systems understanding as well as in the development of new materials. Or in gaining new findings regarding the recuperation of braking energy or thermal management,” says Prof. Peter Gutzmer, Deputy CEO and Chief Technology Officer of Schaeffler AG. “In addition, motorsport is emotion – and that’s what we need in electric mobility too.” That Formula E races in the hearts of major metropolises reflects the global trend toward urbanization. An aspect that just like electrification and connected vehicles plays an important part at Schaeffler in the development of future mobility technologies.