Schaeffler UK named as a key technology partner on Ford’s ACTIVE project

Bearings and automotive component and systems supplier Schaeffler is one of 11 UK-based technology partners involved in the ACTIVE (Advanced Combustion Turbocharge Inline Variable Valvetrain Engine) project, a multi-million pound investment by government and industry to help the UK accelerate its leadership in advanced propulsion development and production.

The ACTIVE project is one of a number of initiatives supported by the APC (Advanced Propulsion Centre), which has been set up by the Automotive Council. ACTIVE is focused on Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine, the International Engine of the Year in 2012 and 2013. ACTIVE will accelerate the introduction of future-generation low carbon technologies, including advanced turbocharging, advanced combustion system development and variable Valvetrain technology, targeting significant CO₂ savings. Ford and its partners will receive a £13.1m grant for their £100m programme to upgrade the EcoBoost engine.

Project work will be carried out at various partner locations in the UK with key activities coordinated from Ford Dunton. The 11 partners included in the consortium are Ford, Schaeffler UK, Continental, UEES (Unipart Eberspacher Exhaust Systems), University of Bath, Loughborough University, University of Bradford, University of Nottingham, BP and AP Raicam (Automotive Products).

Schaeffler currently supplies mechanical tappets and the VCT (variable cam timing) system for use on Ford’s 3-cylinder 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine. These technologies contribute to improved fuel efficiency and lower CO₂ emissions. In addition, for some regions of the world, Schaeffler will also supply an idler for the Front End Accessory Drive.

Alena Useinovic, vice president automotive at Schaeffler UK commented: “Schaeffler is delighted to be involved in the ACTIVE project. Ford and Schaeffler have worked closely together for a number of years on many power train development projects. Our continued focus on the development of new lightweight, lower friction, more energy-efficient components and systems is helping to reduce the weight of the vehicle, improve fuel consumption and minimise CO₂ emissions in order to help OEMs meet ever-tighter European vehicle emissions targets. We are very much looking forward to continuing this cooperation with Ford on their ACTIVE project.”