- Schaeffler's MultiMode dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) is entering volume production, responding to increasing global demand for hybrid powertrains as a long-term solution.
- The DHT integrates multiple components into a compact unit, supporting three driving modes and enhancing efficiency in hybrid applications.
- With projections indicating that hybrids could comprise 30% of global new vehicle production by 2035, Schaeffler is positioning itself strategically in a rapidly evolving market.
The launch of Schaeffler's MultiMode dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) into volume production is a significant milestone that underscores the growing momentum behind hybrid powertrain technologies. As the automotive industry grapples with stringent emissions regulations and shifting consumer preferences, the DHT emerges not merely as a transitional solution but as a robust long-term product category, particularly in markets beyond Europe. This strategic move aligns with the increasing demand for efficient and versatile powertrains, marking a pivotal moment for Schaeffler as it seeks to capitalize on this trend.
The MultiMode DHT is a sophisticated, compact unit weighing 125 kg, capable of delivering up to 145 kW of peak power. By integrating two electric machines, power electronics, and hydraulic systems for clutch actuation and cooling into a single module, Schaeffler enhances the efficiency and performance of hybrid vehicles. The transmission supports three distinct driving modes: electric-only, serial, and parallel. The serial mode, in particular, allows the internal combustion engine to operate at a fixed efficiency point, decoupling it from wheel demand and optimizing fuel consumption during mixed-mode operation. This design not only improves performance but also addresses the critical need for reduced emissions in hybrid applications.
In addition to the DHT, Schaeffler is advancing its production-ready components for hybrid internal combustion engine (ICE) applications. The spoke damper, which functions as a torsional vibration absorber, is already in volume production with Chinese manufacturers, demonstrating Schaeffler's commitment to innovation and efficiency. This component reduces friction and packaging volume by eliminating the need for an external crankshaft seal. Furthermore, the company’s latest camshaft phasing technology, which utilizes a brushless DC motor for variable valve timing, has also begun production, showcasing Schaeffler's comprehensive approach to enhancing hybrid powertrains.
Looking ahead, Schaeffler anticipates that approximately 30 percent of global new vehicle production will be hybrid by 2035, with internal combustion engine-only vehicles projected to account for around 20 percent. The demand for hybrids is expected to vary significantly by region, with Japan leading the charge at an estimated 77 percent of new production by 2035. CEO Matthias Zink's assertion that “every gram of CO₂ saved counts” encapsulates the urgency and importance of these developments in the context of global climate goals. Schaeffler's strategic initiatives position it well to meet the evolving needs of the automotive market while contributing to a more sustainable future.
