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PTC and Schaeffler Fortify Their Strategic Alliance with Windchill+

In a significant development for the automotive and industrial sectors, PTC has announced that Schaeffler, a leader in motion technology, is set to transition to PTC’s Windchill+® product lifecycle management (PLM) solution. This move marks an integral step in Schaeffler's ongoing initiative to modernize its product development processes and improve its time to market. The adoption of Windchill+ forms part of a broader strategy to enhance digital transformation within Schaeffler's operations.

The Benefits of a Cloud-Driven Transformation

As Schaeffler migrates from its traditional on-premises Windchill® environment to a cloud-based Windchill+ platform, it stands to gain multiple advantages unique to cloud solutions. These include faster deployment times, seamless upgrades, and enhanced collaboration capabilities that can streamline workflows and speed up the development cycle. This cloud-first approach is particularly suited for an industry that continuously demands innovation and agility.

Neil Barua, President and CEO of PTC, expressed his optimism regarding this collaboration, stating, "Schaeffler's adoption of Windchill+ is a pivotal moment in our decade-long partnership. The solution's collaborative features and user-friendly interface are set to empower Schaeffler to refine its product development processes significantly."

A Partnership Built on Innovation

PTC’s software has been crucial for Schaeffler over the last ten years, aiding the company in crafting some of the automotive industry’s most advanced products, including sophisticated engine, transmission, and chassis systems, alongside electric drives. Following the successful merger of Schaeffler with Vitesco Technologies in late 2024, both companies are poised to expand their collaboration further.

Schaeffler utilizes PTC solutions not only for defining hardware and software requirements through application lifecycle management (ALM) but also employs CAD tools for product design. The integration of product configuration management via PLM platforms ensures that Schaeffler can seamlessly transfer data throughout its manufacturing processes with tools like Windchill Navigate™.

Embracing Artificial Intelligence in Product Development

Looking forward, PTC and Schaeffler anticipate a collaborative effort in leveraging artificial intelligence to drive product development initiatives. By harnessing the vast amount of product data managed within PTC's software suite, Schaeffler aims to quicken its product development and ultimately uphold its status as a trailblazer in the industry.

Rainer Eidloth, Senior Vice President of Engineering Digitalization at Schaeffler, emphasized the importance of this transformation, noting, "Schaeffler has excelled as an industry leader for over 75 years, acknowledging the necessity of ongoing digitalization to create top-tier products for our clients worldwide. Advancing our product development timeline and adopting a cloud-centric mindset are among our top priorities, and this collaboration with PTC is vital to that end."

As both companies are charting their path ahead, the transition to Windchill+ represents not just an upgrade in technology but a strategic commitment to innovation in product development—with the aim of delivering unparalleled solutions to a global customer base. The close working relationship between PTC and Schaeffler is expected to yield innovative advancements that will shape the future of the automotive and motion technology industries.

Conclusion

The transition to Windchill+ signifies more than mere tech adaptation; it reflects a strategic alliance focused on continuous improvement and competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving market. As PTC and Schaeffler embark on this transformative journey, the potential for new product innovations and enhanced operational efficiencies is substantial, reinforcing their commitment to lead the industry into the future.