Micah Shepard, President, Vehicle Lifetime Solutions Asia Pacific, Schaeffler and Sharad Bhatia, President. Vehicle Lifetime Solutions, Schaaffier India
NEW DELHI – As the automotive landscape undergoes a rapid transformation, Schaeffler has signaled its intent to lead the charge in India’s evolving aftermarket. At the ACMA Automechanika 2026, the global automotive and industrial supplier showcased a robust strategy aimed at diversifying its Vehicle Lifetime Solutions business, moving beyond its traditional strongholds to capture a wider share of the Indian market.
Schaeffler is evolving its identity by looking far beyond the traditional car market. While passenger vehicles remain the foundation of their business, the company is now driving a bold strategy to serve multiple industries at once. According to Micah Shepard, President of Vehicle Lifetime Solutions Asia Pacific, Schaeffler has officially moved past being a car-only specialist to become a versatile leader across various vehicle types.
“Passenger vehicles remain a strong core for us, while we are expanding our aftermarket presence into commercial vehicles, tractors, and formally entering the two-wheeler segment this year,” Mr. Shepard stated.
This expansion is bolstered by the integration of Vitesco Technologies products, which has significantly enriched Schaeffler’s portfolio. The new offerings now include advanced electronic products and EV-ready repair solutions, ensuring the company remains relevant as India shifts toward electrification.
A Specialized Focus on Two-Wheelers
A standout feature of Schaeffler’s showcase was its dedicated entry into the two-wheeler aftermarket. Recognizing the unique demands of the Indian rider, the company introduced a range of sensors, injectors, clutch systems, and brake components. These products are specifically engineered and adapted to withstand the rigorous operating conditions typical of the Indian subcontinent.
Deepening the Indian Footprint
For Schaeffler, India is not just another market; it is a primary growth engine. Sharad Bhatia, President, Vehicle Lifetime Solutions, Schaeffler India, highlighted the strategic importance of the region, noting that the Indian aftermarket is currently among the fastest-growing in the world.
To support this growth, Schaeffler has built a formidable distribution machine. The company’s on-ground presence now includes:
• 300+ Distributors and channel partners.
• Nationwide Retail Reach extending into tens of thousands of outlets.
• Deep Penetration across all four geographical zones of India.
The Path Forward: Digitization and Sustainability
Looking ahead, Schaeffler’s long-term commitment revolves around three pillars: digitization, OE-backed quality, and sustainability. By focusing on competitive costing and eco-friendly packaging, the company aims to provide value that resonates with garages, partners, and end-consumers alike.
As the “Vehicle Lifetime Solutions” branding suggests, Schaeffler is positioning itself as a partner for the entire lifecycle of a vehicle, ensuring that whether a vehicle is powered by an internal combustion engine or a battery, Schaeffler has the parts to keep it moving.
For more info:
www.schaeffler.co.in
