Schaeffler establishes first collaborative research hub in North America at Ohio State

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Exterior of Center for Automotive Research

The Ohio State University is home to the first Schaeffler Hub for Advanced Research (SHARE) Program in North America. Located inside the Center for Automotive Research (CAR), the collaborative program will focus on all solid-state electrolyte (ASSE) battery development with future plans for fuel cell research and development.

The Schaeffler Group manufactures high-precision components and systems for engine, transmission and chassis applications as well as rolling and plain bearing solutions for a wide range of industrial applications. Its global network of manufacturing locations, R&D facilities and sales offices encompasses approximately 170 locations in over 50 countries, including a factory and innovation center in Wooster, Ohio.

“ASSE batteries will be a breakthrough for the next-gen electric vehicles technology,” said Jung-Hyun Kim, assistant professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. “Through the SHARE program, Schaeffler and Ohio State will be able to innovate and develop jointly the manufacturing processes of ASSE batteries that can be up-scaled and implemented to electric vehicles.”

Schaeffler’s e-mobility team recently joined the CAR team to celebrate the kickoff of the program.

“This program is an ideal way for Schaeffler to inspire and foster the next generation of automotive and mobility engineers,” said Jeff Hemphill, CTO, Schaeffler Americas. “Building on the success of our established international programs, we hope our work with Ohio State will expand the current state of ASSE and fuel cell technology, which we believe are key components for the future of mobility.”

The SHARE program uses the “company on campus” concept that includes dedicated offices for full-time Schaeffler employees at the university to foster a close collaboration between Schaeffler employees, university researchers, PhD candidates and students.

As part of the initial program, Schaeffler is sponsoring a PhD student, who will also be an integral part of Schaeffler’s on-site team. Supporting a PhD candidate who will concurrently focus on ASSE battery manufacturing development is an example of how the SHARE program advances e-mobility innovation while also giving back to higher education.   

“This SHARE program is an excellent initiative and an ideal model for academia – industry collaboration,” said CAR Director, Giorgio Rizzoni. "I believe that the impact of this initiative on research and education will be invaluable in preparing Ohio State students to be the next-generation leaders in energy storage and vehicle electrification.”

The SHARE program at Ohio State builds on Schaeffler’s long-term commitment to supporting academic and economic growth in the state of Ohio. Schaeffler and Ohio State have previously collaborated on several research initiatives – including the GearLab and as a member of the CAR Membership Consortium – to drive technology advancements and promote the automotive field with a particular focus on e-mobility.

The Ohio State University is Schaeffler’s fifth SHARE program presence globally.

For more details, please visit: Schaeffler’s SHARE Network.

Category: Research
Tag: mobility