Schaeffler and CATL team up on battery management systems for the European market

Schaeffler and Chinese battery manufacturer CATL are strengthening their cooperation in e-mobility. The two companies have signed a memorandum of understanding covering the joint development of Battery Management Systems (BMS) and so-called “X-in-1” Integrated PowerBox (IPB) solutions.

While the agreement establishes the framework for a longer-term partnership, the cooperation is not starting entirely from scratch: according to Schaeffler, it already builds on a customer project secured by the two companies.

Europe will be a particular focus. The partners intend to develop solutions specifically tailored to the requirements of European vehicle manufacturers, while also targeting further opportunities in international markets.

CATL batteries meet Schaeffler’s European industrial footprint

The cooperation covers two main technology areas. The first is the joint development of BMS solutions, which control and monitor key battery parameters and functions.

The second concerns “X-in-1” Integrated PowerBox solutions, designed to bring high-voltage electronics and electromechanical systems more closely together within an integrated architecture.

The division of expertise between the partners is particularly significant. Schaeffler contributes capabilities across the BMS value chain, including hardware and software development, system integration, functional safety, testing and validation, as well as localized series production in Europe.

CATL, which accounted for almost 40% of global EV battery usage in the first half of 2026, brings its expertise in battery cells, battery system development and high-volume industrialization.

A partnership with Europe at its centre

The agreement comes as battery and electric powertrain supply chains in Europe continue to evolve and manufacturers increasingly look for locally developed and industrialized components.

Thomas Stierle, CEO E-Mobility at Schaeffler, highlighted the company’s European R&D and manufacturing footprint as well as its experience with market access and regulatory requirements. The objective, he said, is to develop a competitive portfolio serving both global OEMs and Chinese manufacturers expanding into overseas markets.

CATL already has a substantial presence in Europe and said the two companies will also explore the application of technologies including cloud computing and artificial intelligence to battery management.

The cooperation therefore goes beyond the battery cell itself. By combining CATL’s battery technology and industrial scale with Schaeffler’s electronics, software, integration and European manufacturing capabilities, the two groups are positioning themselves to supply a larger share of the battery and electric powertrain system around the cell.