DETROIT – Schaeffler Technologies, which makes high-precision products and systems for engines, transmissions and chassis applications, debuted its eSolutions concept to the North American automotive industry during a press conference yesterday at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.
Schaeffler says the eSolutions true-to-size concept showcases the company’s suite of products and technologies that enhance efficiencies in hybrid and electric vehicles. The concept displays products for the:
* Engine: two-cylinder engine (model);
* Transmission: double clutch transmission (model);
* Hybrid: hybrid module (clutch with electric motor);
* Rear axle: ACTIVeDRIVE electric axle and eWheelDRIVE wheel hub motor;
* Electrical system: batteries (model), power electronics (model for ACTIVeDRIVE) and AFT PROtronic electronic control system (for ACTIVeDRIVE); and
* Chassis: electric roll stabilization system, rear-axle steering and self-leveling suspension.
"In 2020, more than 50 percent of vehicles will have an electric drive," said Prof. Peter Gutzmer, chief technology officer, Schaeffler Technologies. "As a result, we’re working to develop the products and technologies that will both drive and support a successful evolution of electrification. Our eSolutions concept offers a glimpse of Schaeffler Technologies’ range of product offerings developed to help the automotive industry successfully transition into the electric arena."
To demonstrate Schaeffler Technologies’ commitment to advanced vehicle development, the eSolutions concept will showcase its electronic roll stabilization system, which eliminates the hydraulic pump to reduce fuel consumption, cut energy consumption and eliminate fluid leaks. The system consists of an electronic motor with an engine control unit (ECU) and a rotational gear with a high-ratio and compensation module to improve response time, handling and driver comfort. For many vehicles, the system can be used with a 12V system without super-capacitors. Currently in the testing phase, the electronic roll stabilization system promises a 1 to 3 percent fuel economy improvement over hydraulic systems, according to Schaeffler.
Additionally, the company will display its ACTIVeDRIVE electric axle, an active electric differential (eDifferential) mounted on the front or rear axle. This component combines an electric drive with the option of controlling the drive power in each wheel individually. This facilitates torque vectoring (distribution of torque between the right and left wheels), which is beneficial for driving dynamics, safety and comfort.
The NAIAS event – one of the world’s premier automotive exhibitions – opened to the media and industry officials yesterday. It will be open to the public from Saturday, Jan. 14 through Sunday, Jan. 22. For the second consecutive year, Schaeffler Technologies will have a presence at NAIAS as an event sponsor and exhibitor. Its 5,000-square-foot exhibit housing its eSolutions concept will be in room W2-60 and open to journalists and invited guests.
