MUMBAI: Schaeffler India has added another cog to its Indian manufacturing playbook with the inauguration of its fifth production facility, this time in Shoolagiri, Tamil Nadu. Spread across 108,000 square metres, the first phase covers 16,500 sqm and is projected to reach full production by Q4 of calendar year 2025. The new facility will manufacture powertrain and chassis components for both conventional and hybrid vehicles, with a strong nod to emerging e-mobility demand.
The ribbon-cutting was led by top brass from Germany and India, including Georg F. W Schaeffler, Matthias Zink, Eranti Sumithasri, and Harsha Kadam. The move underscores the company’s bullishness on India’s auto sector and aligns with its long-term localisation and growth strategy.
Powertrain CEO & Schaeffler AG chassis, Matthias Zink called the Indian market “a key growth engine”, adding, “The new facility is a significant step in our efforts to expand our global manufacturing footprint and further localisation in the region”.
The Shoolagiri unit will roll out key systems like planetary gears and hybrid transmission components. According to Schaeffler India MD & CEO Harsha Kadam, “This expansion enables us to cater not just to today’s local markets but also to future needs as we transition towards E-mobility”. He noted that the plant will play a critical role in the company’s ‘Make in India’ commitment and sustainable operations model.
Over the past three years (2022–2024), Schaeffler India has invested Rs 1,700 crore—exceeding its original commitment of Rs 1,500 crore—to scale local operations. This includes manufacturing capabilities for e-mobility and large bearings for industrial use. The new facility joins four existing plants and three R&D centres in India.
Schaeffler has also made inroads into the digital aftermarket. In 2023, it acquired KRSV Innovative Auto Solutions Pvt Ltd (Koovers), a B2B e-commerce platform, strengthening its digital footprint in automotive parts.
Sustainability has been baked into the factory’s design. The Shoolagiri plant features rainwater harvesting, zero liquid discharge, natural lighting, battery-powered equipment, and LED lighting. It also integrates ergonomic workspaces and aims to foster a diverse workforce under a broader green manufacturing vision.
Kadam added, “We remain committed to strengthening capabilities in India with our ever-evolving motion technology portfolio to seize emerging opportunities and retain our competitive edge”.