Review of the FKFS Stuttgart International Symposium on Automotive and Engine Technology 2025
From July 2 to 3, the Stuttgart International Symposium on Automotive and Engine Technology took place on the topic of „Automobilvision: Design, Technologie und Nachhaltigkeit“ at the House of Economy in Stuttgart.
We look back on two intense and inspiring days—with exciting ideas, in-depth expertise, and valuable discussions about the mobility of the future.
In addition to the project contributions, the symposium impressed with a high-caliber program:
The keynotes provided exciting insights into the transformation of the industry, and the panel discussion on the future of the automotive industry in Germany was a strategic highlight that addressed many key issues openly and honestly.
The following topics, among others, were discussed in depth during the parallel technical sessions:
- Software & Digitalization
- New developments in combustion engines
- Hydrogen as an energy carrier
- Battery technologies and their sustainability
Our contribution to the recycling of electric motors in the BMBF research project
During the 5-minute pitches, Sebastian Dressel presented our participation in the BMWK research project REASSERT. Led by Schaeffler and the other project partners Fraunhofer IPA, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology KIT, iFAKT GmbH, Riebesam GmbH & Co. KG, and BRIGHT, the project focuses on the reconditioning of used electric motors, whereby the motor is tested and analyzed as a complete system.
At BRIGHT, we develop and build the central test bench on which electric traction motors can be comprehensively tested—mechanically, electrically, thermally, and functionally. This test bench enables a wide range of test procedures:
Static tests:
- Visual inspection
- Low-voltage equipotential test (measurement of resistances to ensure occupational safety)
- DC resistance of rotary encoder and temperature sensor
- HV insulation test AC
- Partial discharge test
Dynamic tests:
- Rotary encoder test
- Start-up programs
- Open-circuit and short-circuit tests
Active tests:
- Leak test of the cooling system
- Active motor test during operation
One of the main challenges of the project is the lack of reliable information about typical damage patterns in used electric motors – especially since many of these motor types are only just going into series production and the corresponding field data is not yet available. In addition, only a very small number of defective electric motors are currently available. In order to be able to carry out meaningful tests nonetheless, damage must be deliberately induced so that it can later be reliably detected and evaluated on the test bench.
Initial findings from the project show that the most common defects in returned electric motors affect the bearings—simple and inexpensive components, but whose failure can impair the entire motor’s operation. Overall, economic reconditioning is currently only worthwhile to a limited extent, as new motors are still comparatively inexpensive. In the future, however, legal changes could create an economic incentive for reconditioning – provided that the design of the motors is adapted accordingly, for example by improving the interchangeability of the stator insulation, so that repairs can be carried out more efficiently and cost-effectively.
Electric motors from the field have the potential for a second life—but this requires intelligent testing technology, flexible test benches, and strategic design adjustments. BRIGHT is developing the tools today so that tomorrow, returns can be turned back into resources.
High-level networking and exchange
There was also plenty of opportunity for networking—in particular, the evening event at Memox provided a relaxed atmosphere for exciting discussions with experts from industry, research, and development.
Our conclusion
The FKFS Symposium 2025 was once again a top-level industry gathering—in terms of content, organization, and people. We would like to express our sincere thanks to the FKFS for this superbly organized event and are already looking forward to next year.
The dialogue on the mobility of the future continues—and we are right in the middle of it.
Further information about the symposium: https://www.fkfs-veranstaltungen.de/veranstaltungen/stuttgart-symposium