Shanghai (ZXZC)- On November 1st, Schaeffler officially inaugurated the New Energy Phase II Factory of its manufacturing base in Taicang, a county-level city in China's Jiangsu province, according to the company's press release.

Photo credit: Schaeffler

As one of Schaeffler's key investment projects in China, the commencement of the Phase II Factory will significantly enhance the company's local manufacturing capabilities in the country. It is set to expedite the development of its new energy vehicle (NEV)-related business and enhance its ability to cater to the needs of the local Chinese customers and market.

During the inauguration ceremony, Schaeffler signed an investment agreement for the New Energy Phase III Project with the Taicang High-Tech Industrial Development Zone. This agreement further amplifies its commitment to the NEV-related sector and expands its investments in China.

The New Energy Phase II Factory is located within Schaeffler's Taicang manufacturing base on in the Taicang High-Tech Industrial Development Zone. Its primary focus is on the production of essential components for NEVs, such as electric motor stators and rotors. As a significant extension of Schaeffler's New Energy Phase I Factory in Taicang, the Phase II Factory's commencement will equip Schaeffler with a comprehensive production capability for a full range of electric drive products. This includes hybrid modules, drive motors, electric drive axle, etc.

As one of Schaeffler's global benchmark digital factories, the newly inaugurated factory aspires to create an end-to-end digitalized manufacturing environment. It will achieve this vision by employing advanced technologies such as data control centers, paperless operations, AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) logistics transport, and AI-based visual inspections. Furthermore, the facility remains dedicated to the principles of sustainability. Through measures like waste heat recovery, rainwater collection, wastewater utilization, intelligent lighting, and rooftop photovoltaic power generation, the Phase II factory aims to be a modern, green, low-carbon, and eco-friendly facility throughout its entire lifecycle, from construction and production process optimization to energy use and management.

The New Energy Phase III Project spans approximately 70,000 square meters and involves an investment of 200 million euros (around 15 billion yuan). It focuses on the NEV electric drive sector and will work on manufacturing products like hub motors, electric bridge gearboxes, hybrid transmissions, and will be equipped with necessary logistics and storage facilities.