Home 9 CAD 9 PTC, Schaeffler Unlock AI-Driven Product Growth with Windchill+ PLM

PTC, Schaeffler Unlock AI-Driven Product Growth with Windchill+ PLM

by | May 2, 2025

A cloud-based system is being adopted by Schaeffler through PTC’s Windchill+ platform to enhance product development. This transition is expected to improve collaboration and deliver solutions to customers efficiently.
Image: PTC

BOSTON, MA, May 2, 2025 – PTC announced that Schaeffler will adopt its Windchill+ product lifecycle management (PLM) solution as part of an update to its product development process. This change moves Schaeffler from using Windchill to a cloud-based Windchill+ platform. The new system will simplify deployment, make seamless upgrades, and improve collaboration across teams.

“Schaeffler’s adoption of Windchill+ represents the next step in the strategic relationship our companies have shared over the last decade,” said Neil Barua, president and CEO of PTC. “We’re confident that the benefits of Windchill+, including collaboration, ease-of-use, and always being on the latest version with the newest features – will enable Schaeffler to accelerate its product development processes and build on its position as an industry leader.”

Over the last decade, Schaeffler has used PTC’s product development software to create various products in the automotive industry, including engine, transmission, and chassis systems and electric drives. The partnership is expected to expand after the merger of Schaeffler and Vitesco Technologies in October 2024. Schaeffler utilizes PTC software to define hardware and software requirements with application lifecycle management (ALM), to design products with CAD, to manage product configurations in PLM, and to extend this data into manufacturing process through PLM-based solutions like Windchill Navigate.

PTC and Schaeffler plan to collaborate on AI driven projects. They will leverage product data from PTC’s product development portfolio to help Schaeffler speed up its product development process.

“Schaeffler has been an industry leader for over 75 years and recognizes the importance of continued transformation in digitalization to deliver best-in-class products for our global customers,” said Rainer Eidloth, senior vice president engineering digitalization & IT at Schaeffler. “Accelerating the product development process and embracing a cloud-first strategy are two of our highest priorities, and our longstanding relationship with PTC plays a crucial role in this effort. We look forward to continuing our close collaboration as we make this shift to Windchill+ and continue advancing our product portfolio.”

Source: PTC

About PTC

PTC Inc., founded in 1985 and headquartered in Boston, MA, is a technology company that provides software solutions focused on digital transformation. Its offerings include product lifecycle management (PLM), CAD, Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), and augmented reality (AR). These tools improve product design, manufacturing, and service operations. PTC serves industries including aerospace, automotive, electronics, and industrial equipment. Its solutions are used by more than 30,000 customers worldwide, including 95% of Fortune 500 discrete manufacturing companies. With around 7,500 employees globally, the company continues to grow through its subscription-based model and focus on enabling smarter, efficient digital product innovation across industries.

About Schaeffler

Schaeffler Group, founded in 1946 and headquartered in Herzogenaurach, Germany, is a global supplier of motion technology solutions. The company operates across three main divisions: Automotive Technologies, Automotive Aftermarket, and Industrial, providing components and systems like bearings, powertrain solutions, and chassis systems. Schaeffler serves various industries, including automotive, aerospace, rail, and renewable energy. In 2024, the company reported revenues of €18.2 billion. As of September 30, 2024, Schaeffler employed approximately 82,000 individuals worldwide. The company maintains a global presence, operating in more than 250 locations in over 55 countries. Schaeffler has proven to be a key player in driving innovation and sustainability in mobility solutions.