Schaeffler Automotive Symposium 2026 Schaeffler Connects Intelligent Chassis & Body Technologies to Create Smarter, Safer Vehicles

2026-09-15 | Fort Mill S.C.

• Advanced steering and suspension solutions, including steer-by-wire, rear-wheel steering and motion deactivation system (MDA), enhance vehicle dynamics, comfort and efficiency
• Schaeffler’s electro-mechanical actuation technologies combine brushless DC (BLDC) motor technology with precision mechanical systems and sensors to enable compact, responsive solutions for software-defined vehicles

Schaeffler is shaping the future of vehicle motion with intelligent chassis and body technologies that seamlessly connect steering, suspension, sensing, and vehicle access, to create safer, more comfortable and connected driving experiences.

At the Schaeffler Automotive Symposium in September, under the theme, “Beyond Driving. Together We Innovate.”, the Motion Technology Company will showcase how these technologies work together to improve performance, efficiency and intelligence across the vehicle.

Rather than optimizing individual components, Schaeffler’s systems approach connects steering, suspension, vehicle access, sensing technologies, and electro-mechanical actuation technologies into intelligent vehicle functions. By combining mechanical expertise, electronics, software and mechanics, Schaeffler enables solutions designed to support the transition toward automated and software-defined mobility.

“As vehicle architectures become increasingly interconnected, success depends on understanding how every system influences the next,” said Matt Frary, President, Powertrain & Chassis. “Schaeffler’s expertise across steering, suspension, sensing, electric actuation and software enables us to develop integrated solutions that create greater value, improve the driving experience and enhance comfort in the next generation of vehicles.”

Intelligent sensing creates the foundation for connected vehicle functions

Sensors play a central role in enabling modern vehicle intelligence. Schaeffler’s comprehensive sensor portfolio continuously monitors vehicle motion and environmental conditions, enabling real-time data processing that supports advanced driver assistance systems, automated driving functions, and active chassis control.

By intelligently combining data from multiple sensors, Schaeffler enables faster, more accurate decision-making for functions ranging from active suspension control and steering assistance to vehicle access and occupant monitoring.

Intelligent steering and suspension enhance vehicle dynamics

Schaeffler’s intelligent steering technologies enhance vehicle dynamics, maneuverability, handling and driver confidence through advanced steer-by-wire and rear-wheel steering systems.

Schaeffler’s steer-by-wire system combines a road-wheel actuator (RWA), which precisely controls wheel movement and calculates road feedback, with a hand-wheel actuator that captures steering inputs and uses an integrated force-feedback actuator (FFA) to deliver a customizable, natural steering feel. Designed for a broad range of vehicle segments, the system offers high levels of customization and installation flexibility through optimized packaging. Rear-wheel steering (RWS) complements these capabilities by optimizing rear-wheel angles across low- and high-speed driving conditions to improve agility, stability and comfort.

Schaeffler’s Motion Deactivation System (MDA) uses electrohydraulic actuation to precisely control suspension movement in response to real-time driving conditions. By reducing unnecessary suspension movement while maintaining optimal tire contact with the road, the system improves vehicle stability, handling precision, and ride comfort while supporting overall vehicle efficiency.

Building on this approach, Schaeffler is taking active suspension technology a step further with its new electro-mechanical actuator (eMDA). Offering an alternative to conventional hydraulics systems, the eMDA features a compact design that simplifies installation and vehicle integration. The system actively responds to road disturbances helping to manage increased vibrations and deliver improved suspension and ride comfort. Its rapid response to changing road conditions contributes to a smoother, more controlled driving experience and greater comfort for vehicle occupants.

Electric actuators enable smarter vehicle functions

Schaeffler’s compact electric actuation technologies are designed to deliver precise, reliable motion in space-constrained applications. The company’s linear drive systems combine highly efficient brushless direct current (BLDC) motor technology with precision mechanics to convert electrical commands into precise, controlled motion. The BLDC motor provides control of speed, torque and position, while the actuator mechanism converts rotational motion into controlled movement, enabling fast and accurate positioning across a range of vehicle applications.

Designed for durability, efficiency and flexible integration, Schaeffler’s electric actuators support the next generation of intelligent vehicle systems where compact packaging and precise performance are essential.

Smarter vehicle access

Schaeffler’s intelligent sensor solutions enable secure, seamless and contactless interactions between drivers and their vehicles. The portfolio includes hands-free access sensors, automated trunk opening and closing solutions, power door systems, vehicle door actuators designed to enhance convenience and comfort, door handle sensors for passive vehicle entry, and phone-as-a-key solutions that provide secure digital access through mobile devices.

By combining precision sensing with advanced vehicle integration expertise, Schaeffler helps automakers deliver convenient, personalized and secure mobility experiences that meet the evolving expectations of today’s drivers.

Driving the future of intelligent mobility

Through expertise in sensors, electric motors, software, and precision mechanical systems, Schaeffler continues to develop integrated mechatronic technologies that address the increasing complexity of modern vehicle architectures.

Visitors to the Schaeffler Automotive Symposium 2026 will experience how these connected technologies improve comfort, safety, vehicle dynamics, and efficiency while helping enable the next generation of automated, electric and software-defined vehicles.