Schaeffler Group (Germany; parent of LuK and INA and FAG Bearings) introduced more than 20 new drivetrain-related products at the North American Auto Show in Detroit.

Most are related to reducing emissions or improving fuel efficiency, with applications for hybrid, conventional gasoline, or diesel engines.

Dr. Juergen Geissinger, Schaeffler CEO, said: "As a system and engineering partner to the automotive industry, we are in a position to offer a wide range of product innovations that have the potential to significantly reduce fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions. Our innovative product and technology portfolio offers technical solutions that range from transmission components and valve train systems to chassis applications, with several of these products offering potential for double-digit percentage savings in fuel consumption."

Among the products unveiled were INA's UniAir valve train actuation system, camshaft adjusters, and lightweight internal balance shafts.

FAG's twin tandem ball bearing wheel bearings were also presented, offering efficiency savings over traditional tapered roller bearings in heavy-duty applications. Potential applications include wheel bearings, pinions and differentials.

article: FAG twin tandem wheel bearings
FAG claims twin tandem bearings can reduce friction by 50% from the tapered roller bearings they are designed to replace -- representing a 1.5% fuel efficiency gain.