Schaeffler starts producing two new e-drive products at Tianjin plant

Beijing (Gasgoo)-Schaeffler has reached a new milestone in its electrification business with the start of production for two e-drive projects at its Tianjin facility: a 900V silicon carbide power module inverter brick and a 48V P2 transmission-integrated electric motor, according to a press release Schaeffler issued on August 15 via its WeChat account.

The mass production launch not only strengthens Schaeffler's position in diversified drive technologies but also highlights the synergies brought by its recent integration efforts.

"The two products now in production are innovative solutions designed to address different levels of electrification, further expanding Schaeffler's e-mobility portfolio and meeting varied market demands," said Thomas Stierle, CEO of Schaeffler's E-Mobility division, "As the global wave of electrification accelerates, Schaeffler will continue to deepen its presence in both China and international markets, delivering solutions that combine performance advantages with cost efficiency."

Schaeffler's first 900V silicon carbide power module inverter brick, now in production at its Tianjin facility, features an innovative, highly integrated design that combines a 900V power module with bus capacitors and boost capacitors through integrated molding. The design substantially increases power density in the e-drive system while offering three distinct advantages—smaller size, higher output, and lower cost—delivering a robust, cost-efficient performance solution for automakers.

Built on silicon carbide technology, the module achieves an output current capacity of ≥650Arms and peak efficiency of 99.5%, setting an industry benchmark. These gains translate directly into vehicle-level benefits, from faster acceleration response and extended driving range to reduced energy losses and improved thermal efficiency, enhancing the overall EV driving experience. The inverter brick's modular design also supports customization, allowing flexible integration across diverse e-drive system layouts.

The second product, the 48V P2 transmission-integrated electric motor, is co-developed by Schaeffler's R&D teams in Germany, Shanghai, and Tianjin to address the electrification stage and market needs in Europe. The motor features a 48V controller with PCB-embedded chip technology, which reduces PCB footprint and lowers thermal resistance in power devices, thereby improving system efficiency.

Schaeffler is the first in the industry to achieve mass production of low-voltage PCB-embedded chips. By leveraging local manufacturing, supply chain advantages, and the Tianjin plant's expertise in stator and rotor technologies, the company accelerated development from production line setup to final product delivery in just one year, supporting customers in rapidly advancing their electrification projects.