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Schaeffler buys Compact Dynamics to boost drives activities
The automotive and industrial supplier Schaeffler is buying a 51% stake in Compact Dynamcs, the German manufacturer of high-performance motors currently owned by the power semiconductor specialist, Semikron. Under the deal, which gives Schaeffler the option of acquiring the remaining shares in 2018, it will also cooperate with Semikron in the development of power electronic systems and the integration of power electronic components. Financial details have not been released.
The deal will expand Schaeffler’s expertise in electric motors and power electronics for electric drives, especially for automotive applications. “We regard electric mobility as one of the major opportunities for the future,” says Schaeffler CEO, Klaus Rosenfeld. “With the acquisition of Compact Dynamics and the cooperation with Semikron, we are adding to our existing technology portfolio and opening up new opportunities for growth.”
Compact Dynamics develops innovative electric drives, focusing on high-performance and lightweight systems for small volume production and motorsport applications. Schaeffler and Compact Dynamics have worked together for many years on, among other things, the development of an electric drive for the Audi ABT Schaeffler Team in the Formula E electric racing series.
The new deal will help Schaeffler to develop and produce its own motors for automotive applications. It plans to integrate Semikron’s power electronics into future, alternative drive concepts, and to collaborate in the early development of volume production systems.
“Through the cooperation with Semikron, we will continue to expand the development and production of electric drive systems with the highest power density and optimum efficiency, combined with modern power electronics”, explains Schaeffler’s deputy CEO and chief technology officer, Prof Dr-Ing Peter Gutzmer.
