E-Mobility advanced...
Through the jungle of industrializing BEV* components
(*Battery-Electric-Vehicle)
The Schnitzer Group is recording a significant increase in project enquiries in the field of electromobility. Solutions for industrialization, quality and supply chain management are being requested. The product spectrum ranges from drive systems and axles to battery technology components. The effectiveness of our proven SYSTEMIC Upgrade approach is demonstrated by our ability to utilize a wide range of technologies and tap into the global supply chain.
We are currently supporting well-known OEMs in various battery-electric drive projects. We are facing new challenges as well as familiar problems. One example of this is the construction of a high-voltage DC/DC converter for electric drives, in which numerous components are integrated into one module. A DC/DC converter converts the DC voltage of the HV battery to 12V for the vehicle electrical system. This can be used to supply control units and other electronic components such as lights and audio systems.
A central focus is on ensuring consistently high-quality standards. Our experts are on-site in early project phases to provide transparency and enable targeted communication. With their expertise, they can implement changes quickly and elaborate precise scheduling statements.
Precision and durability are also crucial inside DC/DC converters. To ensure short design-to-market times, we work closely with Asian partners while still ensuring high quality through our local expertise.
The increasingly stringent EMC requirements pose another challenge that we are addressing. This involves not only industrial manufacturability but also protecting sensitive electronic components from electromagnetic radiation.
Comprehensive supply chain management is of enormous importance. Our SYSTEMIC Project Managers navigate through a complex supply chain and overcome difficulties arising from the long lead times of electronic components.
Finally, through our own micromobility project, the UPGRADER, developed by Stefan Mangold, Schnitzer Group, we are gaining valuable experience in the field of alternative drive technology.
Customer Voice C-CON:
Changing perspectives with the Schnitzer Group
C-CON GmbH, part of MT Technologies GmbH, specializes in supplying interior and exterior parts for automotive manufacturing. The range of services covers everything from design to manufacturing of components. The location in Eitensheim, South Germany, primarily focuses on the production of refined 1K, 2K plastic parts, and assemblies.
The Schnitzer Group has supported C-CON in the past with challenges in plastic injection molding. Schnitzer Group was able to leverage its expertise throughout the entire product development process, from filling studies and DFMs to tooling and operational injection molding processes.
In the current project, Schnitzer Group was initially requested to assist in improving document-based management during manufacturing and optimizing the logistics process, including involvement of upstream suppliers. After project initiation, it became evident that the operational areas needed to be expanded. The organizational structure and processes were examined, particularly in the areas of scheduling, production, quality control, and warehousing.
Through guided internal audits and intensive coordination with all stakeholders, both specific improvements and structural internal and external processes were defined and implemented. The extensive experience in the automotive industry and the broad expertise of Schnitzer Group in project management, engineering, and quality were highly beneficial.
Managing Director Michael Misslbeck expressed his impression after the final presentation and discussion. He emphasized that he previously never received a comparable result in such a short time, which could recognize and represent the overarching potential of his company. The extensive documentation and advice from Reinhard Syska, SYSTEMIC Project Manager at Schnitzer Group, will be utilized in upcoming planned workshops.
Business Unit Leader Marcus Bernecker praises Schnitzer Group: "With a collaborative approach, it was possible to involve all stakeholders and critically question existing processes. This made it possible to adjust and improve ongoing processes during the project. Mr. Syska has provided us with implementable recommendations for the short and medium term and has shown us new perspectives on process and interface adjustments."
Marcus Bernecker, Michael Misslbeck
Thailand: New Schnitzer Group location
To efficiently develop the Southeast Asian market, including Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia, we established the 8th Schnitzer Group location in Bangkok in December 2023. This location not only offers cost-effective production opportunities, especially for labor-intensive processes, but also potential for industrial growth.
Our office in Thailand is the link between global experience and the specific requirements of the world market. We strive to become an integral part of the Thai business community and actively contribute to innovation and success.
With Joachim Mueller, we have an experienced local colleague who has been living in Thailand for 12 years. His skills include various forming processes, injection molding, toolmaking and extensive experience with carbon fiber technology (CFRP).
The native German speaker is fluent in English and speaks Thai, which facilitates smooth communication and collaboration. His deep understanding of technology, but also of the local culture and economy, makes him a valuable member of our team in Asia.
Joachim Mueller in front of a Krauss-Maffei machine at a supplier in Zhangjiagang, near Shanghai. This machine produces bumpers fully automatically in 80-second cycles.