Schaeffler and Rokae Robotics Forge Strategic Partnership to Build a New Ecosystem for Embodied AI

On April 7, Schaeffler—a global leader in precision manufacturing—and Rokae Robotics—a pioneer in China's intelligent robotics sector—officially signed a strategic cooperation agreement. The two parties will integrate their respective strengths in technology R&D, supply chain resources, and application scenarios to engage in deep collaboration centered on core components—such as joint modules for humanoid robots—thereby jointly accelerating the large-scale commercialization and industrial implementation of embodied AI technologies.

As a pivotal move in its strategic layout for the humanoid robotics industry, Schaeffler previously established a wholly-owned subsidiary in Taicang: Schaeffler Embodied AI Robotics (Taicang) Co., Ltd. This entity focuses on the R&D and manufacturing of core components and subsystems for humanoid robots; its product portfolio encompasses critical parts such as torque sensors, harmonic reducers, and roller screws, supported by a comprehensive operational system spanning the entire process from R&D to mass production. This latest partnership with Rokae Robotics will further bolster Schaeffler's capabilities regarding technological synergy and real-world application within the core components sector.

Under the terms of the agreement, the two parties will construct a closed-loop ecosystem encompassing "R&D, Supply, and Application." Rokae Robotics will contribute its full-stack core robotics technologies, mature capabilities in complete robot system R&D and manufacturing, and extensive experience in deploying solutions within industrial environments. Schaeffler, leveraging its deep expertise in precision mechanical components, transmission systems, and sensor technologies, will provide Rokae with customized design and manufacturing support for high-performance core components. Together, the partners will jointly develop industry-leading integrated joint modules for embodied AI robots, utilizing a comprehensive, end-to-end joint debugging and optimization process to ensure the products remain highly competitive in terms of performance, cost-efficiency, and supply chain reliability.

Furthermore, this collaboration will extend to the comprehensive deployment and application of humanoid robots across various scenarios. On one hand, Schaeffler will serve as a core supplier of embodied intelligence joint modules for Rokae Robotics; together, the two companies will jointly develop next-generation humanoid robot solutions tailored to a wide range of applications. On the other hand, Rokae Robotics will play an integral role in the automation upgrades of Schaeffler’s global smart manufacturing facilities, leveraging highly flexible and intelligent solutions to enhance production quality and efficiency.

Dr. Zhang Yilin, CEO of Schaeffler Greater China, stated that this partnership will enable Schaeffler to integrate local Chinese innovation resources, thereby seizing early-mover advantages in the humanoid robot market through superior technology and cost-effectiveness. Tuo Hua, CEO of Rokae Robotics, noted that the industrialization of embodied intelligence necessitates deep collaboration across the entire value chain; consequently, the two parties will coordinate with upstream and downstream partners to collectively build a more resilient global industrial ecosystem for embodied intelligence.

This collaboration marks another significant strategic move by Schaeffler within China's embodied intelligence sector. Previously, Schaeffler established a strategic partnership with Leju Robotics, focusing on industrial applications and technological R&D. With the successful launch of this collaboration with Rokae Robotics, Schaeffler’s industrial strengths—spanning core components, technological synergy, and practical application—will become even more pronounced, injecting powerful momentum into the transition of humanoid robots from technological validation to large-scale commercialization.