Schaeffler has started series production of its so-called 2in1 E-axle in Taicang, China. The first Chinese car equipped with this product will be launched shortly. After the market launch in China, the axle will also be used by a European OEM, according to Schaeffler.

‘2in1’ means the system combines the reduction gearbox and electric motor in one compact unit. Under the Schaeffler umbrella, it is another solution in the growing e-axle system portfolio.

Thanks to its modular design, the system can be applied to various vehicle platforms, according to a statement from the supplier. Schaeffler also claims “compactness, high power density, high level of system efficiency, and superior acoustic behaviour” as the system’s unique selling points.

The axle is another step in Schaeffler’s advance into e-mobility since it introduced a dedicated business unit three years ago. Since then, the division has grown in importance for the group. In 2020, Schaeffler recorded incoming orders of €2.7 billion in this area. The number of projects was 30 per cent higher than in the previous year. And according to the company, it is continuing to rise this year.

At the beginning of the year, Schaeffler already announced its intention to start series production of e-motors for hybrid modules, hybrid transmissions and purely electric axle drives in 2021. In addition to the passenger car sector, the supplier has recently also set its sights on the truck sector (and has the first series orders for e-motors and hybrid modules in its pocket) and wants to position itself as an all-rounder for potential customers with an assortment ranging from components to complete drive systems and with a range spanning all degrees of electrification.