Digital networking is what it's all about just now, but one aspect of this ever-present theme stands out in particular - e-mobility, and by association autonomous driving. In fact, there are more than a few who see it as the "killer application" that justifies all the effort involved in integrating 5G into everything including the kitchen sink. Automotive and industrial supplier Schaeffler predicts that, by 2030, some 30 percent of all newly registered cars will be fully electric and 40 percent hybrids running on both a conventional combustion engine and electric motor. To get a more tangible picture of what this not-too-distant future will look like, Schaeffler has developed a series of experimental vehicles ranging from hybrid modules to the 1,000 HP+ 4ePerformance concept car.

The "Schaeffler 4ePerformance" is a fascinating four-wheeled ambassador for e-mobility and a good example of how technology can be transferred from motor racing to a close-to-volume-production drive concept. The fully electric vehicle is powered by four Formula E motors with a total power output of 1,200 HP that come from the ABT Schaeffler FE01 Formula E racing car. Like the power electronics in the vehicle, the motors are the work of Schaeffler subsidiary Compact Dynamics. The four drives were in use throughout the entire second Formula E season, which makes the electric racing series the ideal proving ground for developing electric mobility technologies.

Schaeffler AG (91074 Herzogenaurach, Germany)
Website: www.schaeffler-group.com