Schaeffler has been one of the leading players in the aftermarket product segment in India. How does Schaeffler Group use its engineering expertise and knowledge to design and provide high-quality aftermarket products to consumers?
A world constantly evolving needs an evolutionary technology. With innovative technologies, products, and services for CO2 efficient drives, Industry 4.0, digitalisation and renewable energies, Schaeffler is a reliable partner for making motion and mobility more efficient, intelligent and sustainable.
Schaeffler’s Automotive Aftermarket division is responsible for the distribution of spare parts and
delivers innovative repair solutions in original equipment quality for passenger cars, tractors light and heavy commercial vehicles. With a comprehensive understanding of engine, transmission, and chassis systems, along with an extensive service offer, the aftermarket division also supports workshops carrying out complicated repairs.
We proactively work to understand our customers’ needs and launch products that create longterm value for them. When BSVI became applicable for commercial vehicles, we figured that many of the CVs will now become unserviceable because of the type of clutch installed in them. We seized the opportunity by launching our serviceable clutches, which could not only be retrofitted to meet the new norms, but also increased in terms of the life of the clutches by 2x, creating value for the end-user.
With constantly emerging technologies in today’s modern vehicles, repairs are becoming more complex and expensive, often requiring an understanding of every vehicle system. With a strong distribution footprint in India and more than 60 years of expertise in the automotive spare parts business and customer-centric focus, Schaeffler Group makes a decisive contribution in extending beyond product development to encompass comprehensive support services.
Some of the key aspects behind our approach include the emphasis on precision engineering and strict adherence to quality control measures that not only enhance the durability and performance of our offerings but also ensure seamless compatibility with a wide range of vehicles and applications. By staying at the forefront of technological advancements, we proactively anticipate market trends and emerging customer needs, allowing us to develop aftermarket products that are not only innovative but also future ready. Through this holistic approach, we continue to commit to customer satisfaction, thereby setting benchmarks in the aftermarket sector.
Automotive Aftermarket division constantly sets new standards in the supply of components and repair solutions with innovation, technical know-how and the highest product quality.
Most of the companies are now concerned about the environment. How does Schaeffler measure and communicate its environmental impact, especially in products contributing to renewable energy and sustainable transportation?
Schaeffler Group has been demonstrating pioneering spirit with an extraordinary passion for technology and innovation for more than 75 years. Sustainability is an integral part of the Schaeffler Group’s corporate strategy and four company values. The company assumes environmental and social responsibility along the entire value chain.
With progressive climate change and social challenges on the rise worldwide, we firmly believe that resolute, fast, and targeted action in all areas of life is more critical to success than ever before, which is why we adapted and further refined our sustainability strategy in 2022.
The Schaeffler Group set itself the goal of achieving climate-neutral operations and reducing CO2 emissions in both in-house production and the supply chain by 2040 – for example, by using renewable energies.
The year 2022 was dedicated not only to further development of our sustainability strategy but also to climate protection and decarbonisation. To develop an understanding among all of the employees of just how important it is to achieve the climate targets, Schaeffler organised a company-wide Climate Action Day in June 2022. That day, all of the company’s approximately 83,000 employees spent 90 minutes learning about the challenges that climate change poses for Schaeffler and society. In more than 4,000 workshops worldwide, developed ideas about how to reduce CO2 emissions with green materials, green production, green products, and personal behavior in their various divisions.
The company will include the entire supply chain on its climate journey. The individual stages are ambitious. Internal production (Scope 1&2) should be climate neutral as of 2030, with 75% of production emissions eliminated by 2025. The emissions resulting from input and raw materials in the supply chain (Scope 3 upstream) will be reduced by 25% by 2030.
All of the locations worldwide will acquire 100% of their electricity from renewable sources by 2024. By then additional measures will be implemented which will result in the cumulative annual energy efficiency gains of 100 GWh.
How do you see automotive events and expos? Aren’t they striking windows of opportunity for both manufacturers and consumers?
In the dynamic and fast-moving automotive industry, exhibitions and trade shows stand as pivotal showcases that bridge the gap between manufacturers and consumers. These gatherings are not just platforms, but opening avenues for innovation, collaboration, and growth. Exhibitions not only come up with the perfect stage to showcase our technological advancements but also helps us gather valuable insights into market trends and emerging demands.
The events serve as networking hubs where we connect with suppliers, distributors, and other fellow industry players. This interactive learning experience very often achieved through workshops, seminars, demonstrations, ensure that consumers are well-informed, making them more confident in their purchasing decisions. These events serve as dynamic ecosystems where both ends converge to create strengthened relationships and function as a community to drive the industry forward.
Can you provide an overview of the range of products that Schaeffler exhibits at the Automechanika 2024 event in New Delhi? Are there any new or innovative products that Schaeffler plans to highlight or introduce at the upcoming Automechanika 2024?
We will be showcasing our state-of-the-art product range at Automechanika 2024, New Delhi and the focus would be the BS-VI portfolio.
Under the three brands LuK, INA and FAG we offer clutch and release systems, engine and transmission applications, as well as chassis applications.
Our lubricants product range, under the brand name Schaeffler TruPower, would also be on display.
Schaeffler TruPower offers a comprehensive range of lubricants including Engine Oil, Gear Oil, Transmission Fluid, Grease, Coolant, Hydraulic oil and Shock Absorber oil for all automotive & industrial segments in various convenient sizes. High-tech and premium base oil with enhanced additive technology designed to meet demanding requirements for Indian vehicle parc.
With our REPXPERT brand we put top priority on offering comprehensive services to garages by conducting practical-oriented training seminars and making their product search convenient through this app.
The other informative areas would be our digital touchpoints where customers can get lot of useful information and our products & services in a digital manner.
What value proposition do Schaeffler’s products bring to the diverse audience at Automechanika 2024, ranging from industry professionals to end-users?
To remain a genuine pioneer and a leading manufacturer in motion technology, also in increasingly dynamic and complex environments, we will have to keep developing as a company and become even more innovative, agile, and efficient, always putting our customers at the centre of what we do. Our ambitious vision reflects this commitment to serve our customers in all their markets along the entire range of motion.
The key to our success, our ability to offer our customer products and services that pioneer motion in all its dimensions, is the cornerstone of what makes us unique. At the same time, it is our unique selling points, our profound system understanding, our innovative spirit as well our ability to excel in highest quality precision manufacturing that enable us to pioneer motion the way we do it.
Schaeffler is actively involved in other niches as well. You have sponsored the Puneri Paltan team in the Pro Kabaddi League. How is the experience of being part of another field, especially when it comes to sports?
Kabaddi, an ancient Indian game, has transcended regional boundaries to become a national obsession, ranking among the most watched sports in the country alongside cricket. In the heart of this thrilling sporting journey is the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) and Schaeffler India is standing shoulder to shoulder with the spirited Puneri Paltan.
Kabaddi, deeply rooted in rural traditions, has witnessed a resurgence, capturing the imagination of fans across the nation. The Pro Kabaddi League, launched in 2014, stands as a testament to the sport’s newfound glory. Broadcasted on Star Sports, PKL has become the most popular Kabaddi league globally and ranks as the second-most watched sports league in India, following closely behind the Indian Premier League.
In 2021, Schaeffler India boldly stepped onto the Kabaddi mat, sponsoring the Puneri Paltan team as the “Powered By” sponsor in Season 8. This partnership continued into Season 9 in 2022 and Season 10 in 2023. The Schaeffler logo proudly graces the back of the official Puneri Paltan jersey, symbolising a commitment to excellence and shared values.
The association with Puneri Paltan extends beyond mere logo placement. Schaeffler’s sponsorship brings a plethora of benefits, from heightened brand visibility to instadia branding, digital marketing activities, and engagements with a targeted audience. This collaboration has not only forged positive brand associations but also provided amplified marketing opportunities.
Puneri Paltan, being coached by the esteemed Arjuna awardee BC Ramesh in Season 10, stands tall as one of the top-performing teams in PKL. Renowned for its youth academy and nurturing young talent, the team embodies unstoppable energy, honed skills, and steely nerves. Each match is a testament to their commitment to excellence and determination to make a difference.
Schaeffler continues its enduring partnership with Puneri Paltan and the journey transcends victories and defeats. It symbolises a shared commitment to excellence, resilience, and the spirit of sportsmanship.
REPXPERT Mobile Technical Van is a revolutionary concept. How did such a thought come to you and how was the overall experience of the team after meeting umpteen technicians? Tell us about the process of executing such a remarkable concept.
With rapidly evolving vehicle technologies and complex repair techniques, challenges are constantly growing for garages and to meet this, more and more know-how and specific knowledge is required for mechanics deepening specialist knowledge and keeping pace with new technologies. This is just as important for garage professionals as the use of high-quality spare parts and repair solutions.
In order to achieve this, we bring the repair innovations of the automotive industry directly to the doorstep of our technician partners.
In October 2019, Schaeffler India took the first stride by launching the first mobile training centre. The van is a centre of advanced knowledge in areas across transmission, engine, and chassis systems. The mobile training van has an area specifically designed for product presentations as well as an exclusive training room. An experienced team of Schaeffler technical experts provides hands-on training, covering our state-of-the-art products in depth and ensuring mechanics can install and maintain them properly.
The REPXPERT Training Van is a pioneer to our initiative to focus on upskilling and promote its importance among our technician partners. It will keep them ready for fast-paced future technology developments.
Since 2019, this excellent initiative and recurring offering from our Automotive Aftermarket colleagues in India has been very well received, proving that Schaeffler’s consistent commitment to technological advancement coupled with hands-on training adds great value for our partners.
Till date, nearly 5,000+ technician partners have been trained in various geographies of the country and we will keep providing valuable knowledge and information through our REPXPERT Mobile Training Van in future as well.
We are also encouraging all garage professionals in India to download REPXPERT Mobile App. This new in-pocket solution will make identifying the right part for a repair and all related technical information fast and super easy. Garage professionals, apart from Product search, can also enjoy free access to many smart solutions such as installation videos for Schaeffler products. The Mobile App completed REPXPERT digital offer and is now available for free download on both iOS and Android devices.
How does Schaeffler ensure the quality and compliance of its products, considering strict industry standards?
The position of the Schaeffler Group is decisively determined by the quality of its products, distinctive technology, and distinctive innovative ability. The foundation for sustained success of our company lies by taking a lead in quality, technology, reliability, innovation, and
cost-effectiveness, as well as ensuring timely deliveries with committed service.
Our standard for quality is oriented towards meeting expectations and requirements of customers through rigorous observation of statutory and official regulations. Our work in all areas is based on the objective of continuous improvement with the aim of achieving ‘zero defects’. We take necessary measures to ensure defect prevention and risk minimisation. Moreover, every employee is aware of his/her commitment to quality and must think and act in accordance with this principle.
Quality is integrated into product development process from initial design stages that promote the use of advanced engineering tools and simulation techniques. Schaeffler also maintains stringent criteria of selecting and evaluating its suppliers which ensure that raw materials and components used in our products meet required specifications. Advanced manufacturing techniques and extensive testing and validation certify that products meet specified quality and safety requirements.
We strive for continuous excellence and follow a holistic approach of integrating quality management in every aspect of our operations. In this way we establish a robust framework for ensuring the quality and compliance of our products, meeting and often surpassing stringent industry standards.