Batteries in Focus
A statement by Peter Schnitzer
Europe's car manufacturers face a massive challenge: China dominates battery technology and is currently securing a leadership role in electric mobility. European manufacturers must catch up to China’s lead with innovative battery concepts and faster development processes. In a short analysis, Peter Schnitzer explores how independent research, investment in new battery technologies, and strategic collaborations can help reclaim the market.
How European OEM can challenge China’s dominance in electric mobility through innovation and speed!
A Review by Peter Schnitzer, CEO of Schnitzer Group
The electrification of the automotive sector is complex and fraught with risks. At the center of this transformation is the battery – specifically, the battery cell, which forms the core of all subsequent technical components. Currently, lithium-ion cells dominate the market, and China has secured a clear leadership position in this field. Through strategic geopolitical measures, China not only controls the production of these cells but also the majority of the raw materials needed for their manufacture, such as rare earth elements.
This dominance gives China a significant advantage in electric mobility. Why invest in outdated combustion engine technology, where catching up would require immense effort? Instead, China is focusing on electric drives, where its market leadership makes it easier to dominate the entire value chain – a position the country is determined to strengthen.
However, battery cell technology is evolving rapidly. New formulations and technological breakthroughs can render existing standards obsolete overnight. This dynamic poses a significant risk to car manufacturers, whose development cycles often last three years. A new battery may be developed and brought into production, only for newer technologies to emerge during this time, making the previous generation obsolete. This could result in substantial development, production, and marketing costs going to waste if the final product is no longer competitive in the market.
Yet, it is precisely in this uncertainty that there is a great opportunity, especially for European OEM. If they succeed in developing their own battery cells based on materials not controlled by China, they could reclaim the global market. Until then, however, it is crucial to develop products based on existing technologies that best meet customer requirements.
A key challenge will be significantly shortening the time between concept and market launch in order to thrive in this rapidly changing environment. Only by doing so, risks can be turned into opportunities, and you benefit from the electric revolution.
Speed is achieved by shortening lengthy decision-making processes. The success of a development project depends on close collaboration between all specialized and competency areas, with information flowing smoothly. The solution lies in a systemic approach that keeps the whole picture in mind without losing sight of individual aspects. This is precisely the approach that the Schnitzer Group pursues with its SYSTEMIC Upgrade, making us a successful partner in the projects we accompany.
Get into discussion with peter.schnitzer@schnitzer-group.com
Process-FMEA Reviews in the automotive industry
For many years, Schnitzer Group has successfully supported suppliers and OEMs in the automotive industry in creating and executing Process-FMEAs (P-FMEA) during the product and process development phase. Failure Mode and Effects Analysis plays a central role: it helps to identify potential sources of error at an early stage and prevent them proactively. Our well-founded and comprehensive approach ensures that the quality of manufacturing processes is secured as early as possible.
Schnitzer Group as a strong partner for process safety
We conduct regular P-FMEA reviews both on-site at suppliers and OEMs, as well as flexibly via online meetings. We always adapt to the individual needs of our clients and ensure continuous process improvement and product quality through close collaboration and regular communication.
Unfortunately, the importance of P-FMEA is often underestimated because it is not viewed as a strategic tool for process optimization, but rather as an additional burden. Its true value is often overlooked due to a lack of prioritization or attention. However, P-FMEA is a dynamic system that requires regular updates and improvements after the correct initial creation. Optimizations derived from ongoing production processes can be incorporated into actual and future projects.
During our P-FMEA reviews, we pay particular attention to ensuring that the structure and layout adhere to the VDA/AIAG (Manual 06/2019) guidelines. If not carried out correctly, an FMEA can quickly become confusing. The seven steps of P-FMEA, ranging from system analysis to functional analysis to risk analysis, are carefully reviewed by us and coordinated with the teams involved, consisting of quality managers and process engineers. This ensures that potential risks are identified early, and risk mitigation measures are implemented before these risks transition to the production phase, where they can lead to significant costs.
Our practical expertise makes Schnitzer Group a reliable partner for process assurance in the automotive industry. With our comprehensive services, we help our clients’ overcome challenges in development and production and achieve the highest quality standards.
Trust the Schnitzer Group – Your Partner for Successful Process FMEA Reviews!
patrick.heine@schnitzer-group.com
Wolfgang Strotmann:
A passionate quality leader retires after years of dedicated service
At the end of this year, Wolfgang Strotmann will retire after 22 years at the Schnitzer Group, stepping down after a well-earned and successful career. With his deep commitment, technical expertise, and tireless efforts, he has made a lasting impact on the company's quality management. Not only did he build a strong team, but he also set new standards in quality assurance. Known affectionately as the "Quality Yoda," Wolfgang was a trailblazer and thought leader, highly respected both internally and externally. His legacy will endure, as his successors are well-prepared for their roles, ensuring his influence will be felt for years to come.
From left to right: Wolfgang Strotmann, Wilhelm Kellerman, Daniela Melzer, Patrick Mayer
A successful era
After 22 years with the Schnitzer Group, we bid farewell to Wolfgang Strotmann, who was responsible for both strategic and operational quality management. As trained tank and apparatus builder, Wolfgang met Peter Schnitzer in 1988 while both were recovering from sports injuries (karate and trick skiing) during a hospital stay. A strong mutual bond quickly developed, leading to Wolfgang's hiring in 2002 as the first employee at the newly opened location in Wangen im Allgaeu.
Before joining the Schnitzer Group, Mr. Strotmann was Head of Quality Assurance at a mid-sized company, having completed his industrial foreman training in Kempten. He also worked in quality planning and inspection at Zeppelin Silo- und Apparatetechnik.
At the Schnitzer Group, Wolfgang became a "secret weapon" in project management and numerous quality projects. He had a unique ability to resolve critical issues in challenging project situations, bringing them back on track. He shared his extensive expertise with colleagues and clients alike in a clear, engaging, and pragmatic way. Over the years, Wolfgang managed to "multiply himself," building a high-performing quality management team. Every new colleague attended his Q-seminars before taking on projects independently. He took particular pride in sharing his specialized knowledge with the quality engineers, continually advancing the team's expertise.
Additionally, Wolfgang was instrumental in developing and running external client seminars on supplier development, sampling according to VDA Volume 2, and auditing knowledge based on ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and VDA 6.3 standards. These seminars, created at clients' requests, remain highly popular and continue to be regularly booked at the Schnitzer Group.
Wolfgang also had a deep commitment to internal quality at the Schnitzer Group. His meticulous and sustainable approach to documentation and his SYSTEMIC focus on project success and the company’s well-being greatly contributed to building and strengthening the Schnitzer Group brand.
As a forward-thinking "Quality Yoda," Wolfgang structured his work carefully and ensured that his successors were well-prepared for their future responsibilities. The strong Q-Team will continue and further develop its work in the spirit of a center of excellence.
The entire team of the Schnitzer Group wishes Wolfgang Strotmann good health and enjoyment in his new phase of life, along with many more great experiences with his family and his Vespa!
Quality is our top priority! Contact us:
peter.schnitzer@schnitzer-group.com
wolfgang.strotmann@schnitzer-group.com
daniela.melzer@schnitzer-group.com
wilhelm.kellermann@schnitzer-group.com
Customer Voice: Hosiden Corporation, China
In an ambitious automotive project for a leading German car manufacturer, Hosiden Corporation faced the challenge of passing a customer audit to release the series production (SOP) in Qingdao, China. Schnitzer Group, led by experienced Quality Manager Fay Oyung, was brought in to help navigate the complex process. Key challenges included coordinating a multicultural team, meeting stringent OEM requirements, and modernizing workflows to meet both audit and customer standards.
Ms. Fay Oyung (left) and Quality Team of Hosiden in Qingdao
Navigating Challenges to Triumph
Hosiden, a renowned Japanese company, provides a diverse range of electronic components (connectors, switches, sensors, acoustic and high-frequency items, display modules) used across industries such as automotive, consumer electronics, communications and medical technology.
Dear Ms. Jin Hailan would you kindly introduce yourself first?
"My name is Jin Hailan, and I am responsible for administration and HR at Hosiden, located in Qingdao, China."
You were in demand of external support. What was the reason behind?
We recognized the necessity for external expertise to navigate the stringent requirements and expectations of the customer audit for our project with a German OEM. The complexity and scope of the task demanded specialized knowledge and skills, which led us to seek the assistance of Schnitzer Group.
What were the challenges in your project and how did the Schnitzer Group handle them with the team?
The project was time-sensitive, with only 12 weeks to prepare for the crucial customer audit to release the serial production (SOP), after an unsuccessful POT audit (potential analysis audit). The team faced the challenge of harmonizing a multicultural team consisting of European sales experts, Japan HQ overseeing R&D and supplier relations, and the China production base handling series production. Schnitzer Group adeptly managed these challenges by quickly absorbing and applying OEM requirements and modernizing workflow procedures to meet audit and customer standards. Their strategic approach and dedication were pivotal in successfully passing the customer audit finally.
How did you experience social interaction and social skills of the project team members?
The social interactions and skills of the Schnitzer Group team were exemplary. Ms. Oyung and her team demonstrated remarkable cultural sensitivity and professionalism. They effectively bridged the gap between our multicultural teams, fostering a collaborative and cohesive working environment. Their communication was clear and respectful, which greatly contributed to the project’s success.
Are there any takeaways for you and your team? Was the project investment in Schnitzer Group well spent and added value?
Absolutely! The success of this project is a testament to the dedication and expertise of Fay Oyung and her team. It's rewarding to see such a meaningful impact and the potential for continued success in future endeavors. Despite the challenges, Ms. Oyung not only satisfied the customer by successfully passing the audit but also opened up new opportunities for future projects. Furthermore, the project significantly elevated our team's professional skills and expertise. The investment in Schnitzer Group was undoubtedly well spent and added substantial value. Several employees in our company still occasionally speak about your valuable advice! Once again, thank you for your support and guidance!
The interview was conducted by fay.oyung@schnitzer-group.com
Schnitzer Group "Take One" 
In our new video series "Spotlight," we offer exciting insights into our international project world. Get to know some of our team members up close and discover how we collaborate with our clients. "The SYSTEMIC Upgrade for your engineering project!"
The first two clips are already online.
