Schaeffler comes up Clutch.

News

25 June

LuK clutches by Schaeffler are engineered and developed for demanding high torque applications such as those in which heavy vehicles operate, and are OE matched for superior performance and high durability.

With its proven position in the Australian heavy vehicle market as a manufacturer of high quality, innovative, safe and reliable trucks, Mercedes-Benz can take no risks with its supplier partners, which is why its relationship with Schaeffler is vital.

Among the Mercedes-Benz trucks that leave the factory equipped with LuK clutches as OE fitment is the ACTROS. Available in a range of drive configurations and outputting up to 580hp and 2,800Nm, the LuK clutches serve an important job in the ACTROS, smoothly and quietly transferring engine power through the PowerShift automated manual transmission to the drive axles.

Schaeffler’s LuK clutches are also fitted to Mercedes-Benz AROCS, ATEGO and ECONIC product lines, as well as selected Freightliner heavy duty models which fall under the Daimler Truck banner. Additionally, Schaeffler supplies its LuK clutches as an aftermarket solution for other prominent heavy vehicle brands including Volvo, IVECO and DAF, with the range continuously expanding to meet the needs of a fast-evolving market. On offer from Schaeffler are options including conventional single plate clutches, double-plate clutches and self-adjusting clutches.

Most heavy vehicles working on Australia roads – particularly in intra and interstate applications – accumulate thousands of kilometres of travel per week, so properly supporting these fleets at the time of servicing, through preventative maintenance schedules or in the unlikely event of a breakdown, is crucially important to minimise costly downtime for operators.

With its large Australian distribution footprint, replacement LuK clutches are easily accessible to workshops and fleets. For added convenience and ease of repair, replacement kits include all the components needed to undertake a complete clutch system overhaul in the one package.

Schaeffler expands OE footprint with Vitesco Technologies

In a show of further commitment to the automotive and commercial vehicle industries, in late 2024 Schaeffler acquired Vitesco Technologies, increasing Schaeffler’s focus

and capabilities in electrification technology, electronic controls, sensing and actuating systems and more – all critical components of future mobility. In recent months, Schaeffler has integrated products including NOX sensors, diesel and gasoline injectors, mass air flow sensors, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, actuators and high-pressure pumps into its expansive portfolio.

Vitesco Technologies has a long and successful history as a premium component supplier to the industry. Originally known as Siemens VDO, it was acquired by the Continental Corporation – best known as a top tier tyre manufacturer – and integrated into the company’s automotive electronics and sensors business. Later it was divested by Continental and renamed Vitesco Technologies in the process.

The brand’s latest evolution as part of Schaeffler sees the coming together of the two prominent mobility brands. For workshops this means a more streamlined supply chain and access to a wider range of products and support services, with the convenience and efficiency of a single point of contact. Customers also know that they’re partnering with a company that’s a trusted OE supplier to leading manufacturers.