Schaeffler was named a 2014 Automotive News Premier Automotive Suppliers’ Contribution to Excellence (PACE) Award winner in the product category for its fuel-saving and vibration-reducing torque converter for rear wheel drive with centrifugal pendulum absorber. Patrick Lindemann, vice president of product development at LuK Wooster (USA), accepted the award on behalf of Schaeffler during an award ceremony held at the Max M. Fisher Music Center in Detroit.
Since downsized engines tend to vibrate more than larger ones, Schaeffler developed a pendulum, operated by centrifugal force and mounted to the torque converter, which cancels vibrations from the engine. As a result, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are reduced, and comfort is increased due to the reduced vibration. The torque converter is developed at Schaeffler’s LuK USA facility in Wooster, Ohio.
This is the fourth time since 2009 that Schaeffler has received the PACE Award, most recently earning the recognition for its UniAir fully variable engine valve lift system that allows engines to operate more efficiently. For over 20 years, the Automotive News PACE Awards have honoured superior innovation, technological advancement and business performance among automotive suppliers. This prestigious award is recognised around the world as the industry benchmark for innovation.