In addition, Schaeffler will support PTC in the further development of market-specific standard solutions in order to better meet the requirements of automotive and industrial companies.

The new alliance builds on twenty years of successful collaboration based on Schaeffler's use of PTC's CAD and PLM solutions. These tools are essential for the introduction and further development of Schaeffler's digital twin initiatives and for the visualization of 3D models, for example as part of augmented reality projects.

Schaeffler wants to leverage PTC's experience and robust end-to-end solutions to move from a customized engineering IT environment to the use of standard applications across the organization. This will enable timely responses to rapidly changing requirements in a dynamic, competitive environment.

The alliance is focused on optimizing the existing environment and expanding it through projects such as Schaeffler's Enterprise Traceability or Model-Based Enterprise and the deeper integration of software development tools. The goal is the company-wide integration of software and system development solutions (Application Lifecycle Management and Model-Based Systems Engineering). This also makes it possible to better map critical systems engineering requirements, such as compliance with different country-specific safety regulations.

"The alliance with PTC is another milestone in our digitalization strategy within the Roadmap 2025," explains Uwe Wagner, Chief Research and Development Officer at Schaeffler AG. "Consistent data models, 3D data and digital twins are already elementary components of the research and development process for Schaeffler today. The increasing complexity requires consistent IT solutions in all development areas for more innovation, agility and efficiency. To achieve this, it is crucial for Schaeffler to work with strong partners like PTC."

"By working with Schaeffler, we aim to drive and develop market-specific solutions for digital transformation," said Jim Heppelmann, President and CEO of PTC. "Both companies will benefit from increased collaboration."