Schaeffler’s MultiMode Dedicated Hybrid Transmission Enters Volume Production with up to 145 kW

Why It Matters

The launch gives automakers a turnkey hybrid solution, accelerating adoption beyond Europe and supporting stricter CO₂ targets. It also signals a shift toward hybrid powertrains as a long‑term segment rather than a stop‑gap.

Key Takeaways

• MultiMode DHT delivers 145 kW from a 125 kg package.
• Supports electric‑only, serial and parallel hybrid driving modes.
• Integrated spoke damper reduces friction and saves packaging space.
• Electric camshaft phaser entered production in China, enhancing valve timing.
• Schaeffler projects hybrids to reach 30 % of global sales by 2035.

Pulse Analysis

Schaeffler’s entry into volume production of its MultiMode dedicated hybrid transmission marks a pivotal moment for the hybrid power‑train market. The 125‑kg unit packs up to 145 kW and combines two electric machines, power electronics and hydraulic actuation in a single module, allowing automakers to offer electric‑only, serial and parallel operation without a complex assembly line. By delivering a ready‑to‑integrate solution, Schaeffler reduces development risk for OEMs and shortens time‑to‑market, a critical advantage as regulators tighten CO₂ limits worldwide.

The launch is accompanied by two production‑ready components that address long‑standing packaging and efficiency challenges. The spoke damper, mounted directly in the crankcase, eliminates an external crankshaft seal, cutting friction and freeing up space—benefits already realized in Chinese factories. Meanwhile, the brushless‑DC‑motor‑driven camshaft phasing unit provides precise variable valve timing across load ranges, improving ICE efficiency and enabling smoother hybrid transitions. Schaeffler’s 2024 merger with Vitesco also adds a real‑time flex‑fuel sensor, positioning the company for markets that rely on ethanol blends.

Looking ahead, Schaeffler projects hybrids will account for roughly 30 % of global new‑vehicle production by 2035, with Japan expected to exceed 75 % penetration. This forecast underscores a shift from viewing hybrids as a transitional technology to a core segment of future mobility. For OEMs, adopting Schaeffler’s integrated DHT can simplify supply chains and support aggressive emissions targets, while offering a scalable platform that can evolve toward full electrification. The move therefore strengthens Schaeffler’s position as a strategic supplier in a rapidly decarbonizing automotive ecosystem.