As part of a broader cloud-driven transformation effort, Schaeffler is transitioning from its on-premises Windchill® environment to a cloud-based Windchill+ environment to unlock speed of deployment and collaboration benefits that are unique to cloud solutions.
“Schaeffler’s adoption of Windchill+ represents the next step in the strategic relationship our companies have shared for more than a decade,” said Neil Barua, President and CEO of PTC.
“We’re confident that the benefits of Windchill+, including collaboration, ease-of-use, and always being on the latest version with the newest features, will enable the business to accelerate its product development processes and build on its position as an industry leader.”
Over the last decade, Schaeffler has utilised PTC’s product development software to develop some of the most advanced and differentiated offerings in the automotive industry, including engine, transmission, and chassis systems and electric drives.
Expanding the Relationship Between Schaeffler and PTC
The relationship is expected to see further expansion following the successful merger of Schaeffler and Vitesco Technologies in October 2024.
Utilising PTC software, the company defines the hardware and software requirements of its products with application lifecycle management (ALM) to design its products with computer-aided design (CAD). It also manages product configurations in PLM and will extend this data into the manufacturing process with PLM-based solutions, such as Windchill Navigate™.
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Product Development
Going forward, the two organisations expect to collaborate on artificial intelligence-driven product development initiatives, leveraging the product data managed across PTC’s product development portfolio.
“Schaeffler has been an industry leader for over 75 years and recognises the importance of continued transformation in digitalisation to deliver best-in-class products for our global customers,” said Rainer Eidloth, Senior Vice President Engineering Digitalisation & IT at Schaeffler.
“Accelerating the product development process and embracing a cloud-first strategy are two of our highest priorities, and our longstanding relationship with PTC plays a crucial role in this effort. We look forward to continuing our close collaboration as we make this shift to Windchill+ and continue advancing our product portfolio.”
