Rear-wheel steering: Successful production launch for German OEM and new volume production orders with greater vertical integration

First quarter sees successful start of volume production for Powertrain & Chassis division’s smart steering system for German automaker Volume production close to customers: Manufacture of rear-wheel steering for seven vehicles of various automakers in Europe, China and North America Three other customer nominations by 2027 Vertical integration: New Schaeffler power pack and sensor expertise increase vertical integration Another successful production launch for Schaeffler’s rear-wheel steering: Since the first quarter of 2025, the Schaeffler plant in Kysuce, Slovakia has been producing the mechatronic steering system for an international automaker from Germany. “With its rear-wheel steering system, Schaeffler offers a strong product to meet the mobility requirements of the future: Another production start-up just a few months ago, as well as new orders for the steering system, are clear proof that innovative chassis technologies from Schaeffler are playing an increasingly important role in the company’s quest to become the leading Motion Technology Company,” says Matthias Zink, CEO Powertrain & Chassis at Schaeffler AG. Customer-focused product development and manufacturing “With more than 250 locations in 55 countries, we ensure that we develop and produce our products close to our customers. With this strategy, we also drive the growth of our innovative chassis portfolio forward,” Zink stresses. For the rear-wheel steering alone, product variants are currently being manufactured for seven cars by various automakers in three plants in different regions: Europe, China and the Americas. The company has already received six other vehicle nominations for the mechatronic system by 2027. Since the end of 2022, Schaeffler’s innovative product has been in volume production for automotive manufacturers worldwide. Greater vertical integration The Schaeffler Powertrain & Chassis division benefits hugely from the larger, complementary product portfolio resulting from last year’s merger of Schaeffler and Vitesco Technologies. “The expertise gained in electronics and sensor technology as well as the greater real net output ratio due to additional components shortens development cycles and strengthens our system expertise,” says Clément Feltz, Head of Chassis Systems at Schaeffler. A prime example of greater vertical integration is the rear-wheel steering: The integrated inductive displacement sensor and the company’s own power pack solution increase the internal real net output ratio at Schaeffler. Compact design with high efficiency The compact design of the rear-wheel steering is based on two main systems: The high-precision mechanical system with planetary roller gear and the power pack with electronics, electric motor and software. “Compared with its competitors, Schaeffler’s rear-wheel steering system offers a unique technological selling point thanks to the planetary roller gear, which converts the rotary motion of the electric motor to the steering motions of the push rod with low friction and very high efficiency,” explains Clément Feltz. The highly sophisticated mechatronic steering system improves agility in bends and provides better vehicle stability and safety at high speeds. A much smaller turning radius enables better maneuvering, e.g., in tight spaces or when parking. Award-winning steering system The North American trade press recently commended the chassis product: In April, Schaeffler received the Automotive News PACE Award 2025 for the highly efficient rear-wheel steering system. For 30 years, this award has honored automotive suppliers leading the field in innovation, technological progress and business performance. On display at IAA MOBILITY 2025 Schaeffler will be showcasing the rear-wheel steering system and other chassis innovations at IAA MOBILITY 2025 at the Munich Exhibition Center. Under the banner “The Motion Technology Company”, the company will present its extended and innovative product range for software, electrification, drivetrain, chassis and car body for automotive applications at the IAA Summit from September 9 to 12 at Booth B40 in Hall B3.