On 3rd November, NTN Europe signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the South Korean start-up CheomdanLAB and the Japanese group UBE. The aim is to develop a new generation of ceramic rolling elements to meet the challenges of electrified mobility, particularly in hybrid and electric vehicles.  An international research partnership bringing together complementary areas of expertise  This research partnership brings together three organisations from three countries, whose complementary areas of expertise provide a real catalyst for innovation:  UBE, a specialist in advanced materials and technical ceramics,  CheomdanLAB, specialising in the manufacture of ceramic balls,  NTN Europe, which contributes its expertise in precision engineering to support the validation of this technology with a view to its integration into bearings intended for mass production.  By combining their skills, the three partners are accelerating the development of new solutions and paving the way for further international collaboration.

Anticipating changes in mobility The electrification of vehicles is profoundly transforming the needs of the automotive industry and presenting new technological challenges. The development of ever more high-performance materials and components is a major challenge in keeping pace with this evolution.  Ceramic rolling elements represent an avenue for innovation worth exploring to meet the market’s new demands.  By committing to this research programme, NTN Europe is strengthening its involvement in the development of technologies that will help shape the mobility of tomorrow. Open innovation driving industrial innovation  Supported by the South Korean government and the Innopolis Institute, this programme illustrates the power of open innovation and international cooperation in bringing about new technological solutions. “At NTN Europe, we firmly believe that innovation is built collectively. By combining our areas of expertise and exploring new avenues of research, we are helping to shape the mobility solutions of tomorrow.”