Schaeffler Debuts New 2-Wheeler Product Portfolio at EICMA 2024

Schaeffler presents innovative solutions for electrified 2-wheelers and side-by-side-vehicles as well as motorcycles with combustion engines

Herzogenaurach, Germany- Schaeffler Automotive Buehl GmbH & Co. KG., is debuting its new 2-wheeler product portfolio at the 110th EICMA international trade fair, taking place from November 7 to 10 in Milan, Italy. Themed “Mind. Set. Future,” Schaeffler’s exhibit at Booth B26 in Hall 15 will showcase innovative powertrain solutions, control units, and sensors that align with trends in electrification and connectivity. The portfolio includes chainless drives for e-bikes, low-voltage electric scooters, side-by-side vehicles, and components for efficient combustion engine technology, along with bearing and sealing solutions.

Mr. Matthias Zink, CEO of Powertrain & Chassis at Schaeffler AG, said, “We are excited to debut our Schaeffler booth at EICMA. The 2-wheeler and powersports segment gained from our merger with Vitesco presents significant growth potential in this dynamic market. Global production of 2-wheelers and powersports is expected to rise from 70 million to over 80 million units by 2030, with electric 2-wheelers projected to more than double to around 30 million units. Our offerings are well-suited to meet the diverse needs of this market.”

Schaeffler is debuting a hybrid scooter concept at the trade fair, developed in partnership with Kymco based on the DTX 360 model. Kymco provides mechanical integration expertise, while Schaeffler offers control system knowledge. The scooter features two electric drive control units for efficient management of the e-machine and a control unit for the combustion engine with integrated throttle control. “This hybrid scooter highlights Schaeffler's systems expertise in 2-wheeler powertrains, enhanced by our merger with Vitesco,” says Matthias Zink. “We see great potential for hybrid drives in this segment, delivering an enjoyable ride and optimized fuel efficiency.”

Schaeffler is addressing the electrification trend with complete powertrain solutions for both low- and high-voltage applications. At the EICMA trade fair, the company will showcase an e-scooter exhibit highlighting its 48-volt drive systems, designed for continuous power outputs between 3 and 7 kW. This system includes an eDCU control unit and a 48-volt electric machine equipped with an inductive rotor position sensor (iRPS) for enhanced control accuracy.

Mr. Torsten Bellon, head of the 2-Wheelers and Powersports business unit at Schaeffler, said, “Together with the new battery management (BMS) this integrated system ensures that the drive is fully optimized for the riding profile typical of e-scooters. Our integrated solutions are cost-efficient and compact in design, so they free up precious space. These are key considerations in the low-voltage segment, which is on track for strong growth, particularly in Asia.”

Schaeffler is showcasing its electrification capabilities at EICMA with a side-by-side vehicle (SSV) powered by the EMR4 axle drive, developed for the passenger car segment. The electric drive system features an electric coolant pump and a compact “OneBox” that combines the PDCU master controller and charging communications unit. “We expect growing demand for high-power electric drives, especially in the USA,” says Torsten Bellon, highlighting Schaeffler's modular solutions.

Additionally, Schaeffler is enhancing connectivity in off-road vehicles and 2-wheelers, providing integrated solutions for real-time maintenance, consumption, and location data, while ensuring cybersecurity compliance by 2029. Despite the rise of electrification, production of internal combustion engine motorcycles will remain steady through 2030. Schaeffler continues to develop efficient engine and transmission components, exemplified by a KTM off-road motorcycle featuring the M4C control unit for engine management. Bellon states, “We remain committed to researching and developing technologies to reduce emissions and fuel consumption for conventional motorcycles.”