In a bold move towards fortifying its foothold in the electric mobility sector, German automotive supplier Schaeffler has unveiled plans for significant investments in the United States. The company has earmarked over 230 million US dollars, approximately 212 million euros, for the development of two state-of-the-art facilities in Ohio by 2032, signaling its commitment to pioneering electric vehicle (EV) technology.

The centerpiece of this ambitious venture is the construction of a cutting-edge production plant in Dover, Ohio. Scheduled to commence in mid-2024 and slated for completion in the third quarter of 2025, this facility is poised to become a beacon of advanced manufacturing, exclusively dedicated to electric mobility solutions for the automotive industry.

Marc McGrath, Schaeffler’s Regional CEO Americas, underscored the strategic significance of the Dover plant, emphasizing its pivotal role in shaping the company’s future in the Americas region. McGrath emphasized that the facility will house state-of-the-art production processes, enabling enhanced customer service while embracing sustainable practices—a testament to Schaeffler’s unwavering commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship.

The choice of Dover as the site for this groundbreaking facility was a deliberate one, guided by its strategic location with robust infrastructure and close proximity to key stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, and Schaeffler’s existing site in Wooster. This strategic positioning underscores Schaeffler's dedication to optimizing logistics and fostering synergistic partnerships within the region.

Furthermore, Schaeffler is exploring opportunities for leveraging incentives under the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act, with an eye towards bolstering the domestic EV supply chain and cultivating local workforce expertise. This initiative dovetails with the company’s broader vision of fostering collaboration and driving innovation within the burgeoning EV ecosystem.

In parallel, Schaeffler is embarking on a transformative partnership with Ohio State University, slated to culminate in the establishment of a cutting-edge research and development center for battery cells by 2025. This collaboration underscores Schaeffler’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of EV technology and nurturing talent in the evolving mobility landscape.

The expansion initiative extends beyond Dover, with plans for the augmentation of Schaeffler’s existing plant in Wooster, which specializes in the production of electric transmission systems. This expansion not only underscores Schaeffler’s commitment to innovation but also reflects its strategic foresight in capitalizing on the growing demand for EV components in the U.S. market.

In total, Schaeffler’s investments are projected to create an impressive 650 new jobs in the burgeoning "mobility of the future" sector in Ohio by 2032. With the unwavering support of the state of Ohio and JobsOhio, Schaeffler is poised to spearhead the transition towards electrification, catalyzing economic growth and driving technological innovation in the heart of America's automotive industry.

As Klaus Rosenfeld, CEO of Schaeffler AG, succinctly puts it, "We are convinced that the trend towards more electrification will continue." Through its visionary investments and unwavering commitment to excellence, Schaeffler is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of mobility, driving sustainable progress, and realizing its growth ambitions on the global stage.