Schaeffler expands electric mobility solutions

Schaeffler has acquired 51% of the shares of Compact Dynamics, a manufacturer of high-performance electric motors, after concluding a purchase contract with parent company SEMIKRON International. Schaeffler and SEMIKRON have also agreed a cooperation for the development of power electronics systems and the integration of power electronics components.

By acquiring this majority shareholding and securing an option for the acquisition of the remaining shares in mid-2018, the Schaeffler Group has attained the expertise for the development and production of its own electric motors for automobile applications.

“We regard electric mobility as one of the major opportunities for the future,” said Klaus Rosenfeld, CEO of Schaeffler AG. “With the acquisition of Compact Dynamics and the cooperation with SEMIKRON, we are adding to our existing technology portfolio and opening up new opportunities for growth.”

Compact Dynamics based in Starnberg, Germany, is a development specialist in the field of innovative, electric drive concepts with a focus on high-performance drives and integrated lightweight construction in small volume production and motorsport applications. Schaeffler and Compact Dynamics have been working together on the development of the electric drive for the Audi ABT Schaeffler Team in the FIA Formula E electric racing series, among other projects.

The transaction is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2017.