It is learned from Chinese media outlet ZhongShangWan, recently, SKF signed a strategic cooperation agreement with NIO, a leading high-end smart electric vehicle manufacturer, to further deepen the cooperation between the two parties. According to the agreement, SKF will become the preferred supplier of NIO ceramic ball bearings, and support NIO’s product development and global development layout with extensive technical capabilities.

SKF’s innovative ceramic ball bearings, which are lighter in weight and higher in rotational speed than conventional bearings, are key components in the drivetrain of many electric vehicles and are currently supplied to many leading electric vehicle manufacturers throughout Asia, Europe and the Americas.

David Johansson, global president of SKF, said: “SKF has been cooperating with NIO since it launched its first car in 2014. The signing of the sub-strategic agreement is another upgrade of the friendly relations between the two sides. At the same time, the strategic cooperation also proved SKF’s outstanding capabilities in the field of electric vehicles and its ability to support global customers.”

Zeng Shuxiang, Senior Vice President of NIO and CEO of NIO Drive Technology, said: “The experience of working with SKF to build competitive electric vehicle products in the industry makes us believe that SKF’s global experience and technical capabilities will help us strong support for the global strategy. We will work together to bring more innovative products and excellent user experience to consumers around the world.”