Schaeffler promotes growing hybrid opportunity for garages

• With hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) now among the top selling cars in the UK, Schaeffler is working to support garages looking to make the most of the opportunities available

• For 48V mild hybrid systems, Schaeffler´s INA Front End Auxiliary Drive (FEAD) KIT also includes the matching belt alternator starter

Hereford | December 2nd, 2024| The rising number of 48V mild hybrid vehicles on the road represents a major opportunity for independent garages, and Schaeffler continues to support workshops through its INA engine parts offering, including FEAD KITs.

The best-selling car in the UK in October 2024 was the Ford Puma, according to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), with most versions offered in mild hybrid form. The second biggest selling car was the KIA Sportage, also often sold with a mild hybrid power unit, and many other HEVs were included in the top 10 for the month, representing a major opportunity for independent garages. 

Schaeffler estimates that there will be more than 100 million 48V mild hybrid vehicles on European roads by 2030, and the motion technology company is continually updating its INA parts offering to include new applications.

“A growing number of mild hybrids are being sold,” said Matthew Selby, Sales and Marketing Director at Schaeffler Vehicle Lifetime Solutions UK Limited.  “This is set to grow into a huge potential market for independent garages, and it is crucial that we support them by making sure they can get the parts they need, so they don’t have to turn away work in the future.”

For 48V-mild-hybrid systems, Schaeffler´s INA Front End Auxiliary Drive (FEAD) KIT includes a multi-ribbed belt, tensioners, idler pulleys and ancillaries (such as nuts and bolts). The belt is designed and engineered specifically for use with belt alternator starter systems (BAS) which feature stop start technology. 

“As with conventional internal combustion engine vehicles,” said Matt, “many systems within 48V mild hybrid vehicle engines rely on the increasingly complex FEAD drive. INA’s FEAD KIT includes everything the technician needs to get the car back on the road.”

Making a complete repair, rather than just replacing any sole worn components within the system is crucial. “Replacing a worn individual part often only helps as a short-term solution, as further system components could also be worn or damaged, and that is not always easy to detect,” said Matt. “Thanks to the INA FEAD KIT from Schaeffler, all affected components can be replaced at the same time to ensure a cost-efficient installation that is both reliable and long-lasting.”