Gasgoo Munich- On April 7, German automotive and industrial supplier Schaeffler signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Chinese robotics company ROKAE, according to a post on Schaeffler's WeChat account. The partnership will focus on the development, supply, and real-world deployment of key components such as humanoid robot joint modules, with the aim of building a new ecosystem for embodied intelligence and accelerating the transition of humanoid robots toward large-scale industrial adoption.
Image source: Schaeffler
Both companies emphasized that scaling humanoid robotics will depend on coordinated innovation across the entire value chain. Under the agreement, Schaeffler and ROKAE will combine their respective strengths in technology, market access, and application scenarios to co-develop critical components, particularly integrated joint modules. ROKAE contributes full-stack robotics expertise, advanced system development capabilities, and proven industrial deployment experience, while Schaeffler brings deep know-how in precision engineering and core components such as high-performance sensors and harmonic drive systems. Together, they aim to deliver highly competitive, integrated joint solutions for the next generation of embodied intelligent robots.
The collaboration extends beyond R&D to include component supply and full-system deployment, creating a closed-loop ecosystem spanning development, production, and application. Schaeffler is expected to serve as a core supplier of joint modules, leveraging its established R&D and mass-production capabilities, while both parties jointly develop solutions tailored to diverse use cases. At the same time, Rokae will support automation upgrades within Schaeffler's own manufacturing operations, helping improve efficiency and production quality.
Schaeffler has been expanding into emerging sectors such as humanoid robotics, building on its broad portfolio of drive technologies and advanced manufacturing capabilities. To accelerate this effort, the company recently established a wholly owned subsidiary in Taicang dedicated to embodied intelligence robotics, focusing on R&D, production, and supporting services.
The company already supplies a range of critical components and subsystems for humanoid robots, including torque sensors for rotary joints, harmonic reducers, roller screws, and linear actuators. Through continued innovation and system integration, Schaeffler aims to position itself as a preferred technology partner in the rapidly evolving humanoid robotics industry.
