LEGACY SUPPLIER EMBRACES EV TECH - AUTOLINE AFTER HOURS 618

EV Channels Review

Autoline After Hours features Jeff Hemphill, CTO of Schaeffler, discussing the company's significant pivot from traditional mechanical components to advanced EV technologies. Hemphill highlights Schaeffler's successful transition by leveraging existing expertise in areas like industrial electric motors and coatings for new applications such as e-axles, chassis mechatronics, and advanced battery systems. The discussion emphasizes the company's strategy of reassembling internal capabilities rather than starting from scratch, while also addressing the challenge of attracting young software talent. The conversation touches upon the demand for hybrid and BEV technologies, with a specific focus on Schaeffler's hybrid module for Ford and their approach to developing efficient electric motors, including innovative techniques like direct injected slot cooling and passive field weakening. The segment also explores the potential and challenges of hub motors, particularly for niche applications like autonomous street sweepers and robo-taxis, and contrasts the differing market demands between the US and Europe. The interview underscores the rapid pace of technological change in the automotive industry and Schaeffler's proactive adaptation.