Schaeffler Debuts Doppler Radar-Based Hands Free Access Sensor for Trunks and Sliding Doors

Schaeffler Debuts Doppler Radar-Based Hands Free Access Sensor for Trunks and Sliding Doors

(IN BRIEF) Schaeffler’s Hands Free Access Sensor delivers contactless opening and closing of trunks and sliding doors using 24 GHz Doppler radar to detect targeted hand or foot gestures within 60 cm. Produced at scale since late 2024 for leading European automakers, the sensor features AI-based calibration, a LIN interface, and a wide operating temperature range (–40 °C to 105 °C). Its simple, single-screw installation—either in the bumper or on the chassis—fits SUVs, sedans, and minivans, with or without trailer hitches. The sensor enhances convenience and safety by preventing false activations and will be exhibited as part of Schaeffler’s Control Motion line at IAA MOBILITY 2025.

(PRESS RELEASE) HERZOGENAURACH, 3-Aug-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Schaeffler’s new Hands Free Access Sensor brings seamless, contactless operation to vehicle trunks and sliding doors. Utilizing 24 GHz Doppler radar, this compact sensor—mountable in bumpers or directly on the chassis—detects precise hand or foot gestures within a 60 cm range to trigger door opening or closing. Volume production commenced late in 2024 for several major European automakers, with growth opportunities identified in North America and China.

“With this sensor, our Powertrain & Chassis Division expands into innovative body-application technologies,” stated Matthias Zink, CEO Powertrain & Chassis at Schaeffler AG. “Following our merger with Vitesco Technologies, the Hands Free Access Sensor exemplifies our evolving product portfolio and advances our ambition to become the world’s leading Motion Technology Company.”

Leif Reinhold, Head of Powertrain Solutions, emphasized the sensor’s user benefits and technical prowess: “Drivers can access their vehicles completely hands-free by simply entering the radar field—no buttons or remotes needed. Our AI-driven calibration tailors the system to each model, ensuring high detection accuracy and immunity to interference, so the doors never open accidentally.”

Engineered for durability, the radar module operates flawlessly in rain, snow, and temperatures from –40 °C to 105 °C. Its LIN-interface integration and single-screw installation—compatible with bumpers or chassis and usable with or without trailer hitches—eliminate lengthy antenna runs and simplify fitting across SUVs, sedans, and minivans.

The Hands Free Access Sensor joins Schaeffler’s Control Motion family and will be featured at IAA MOBILITY 2025 in Munich (September 9–12, Hall B3, Stand B40). Under the theme “The Motion Technology Company,” Schaeffler will showcase its innovations in software, electrification, drivetrain, chassis, and body solutions.

Schaeffler Group – We pioneer motion: The Schaeffler Group has been driving forward groundbreaking inventions and developments in the field of motion technology for over 75 years. With innovative technologies, products, and services for electric mobility, CO₂-efficient drives, chassis solutions, and renewable energies, the company is a reliable partner for making motion more efficient, intelligent, and sustainable – over the entire life cycle. Schaeffler describes its comprehensive range of products and services by means of eight product families: from bearing solutions and all types of linear guidance systems through to repair and monitoring services. With around 120,000 employees and more than 250 locations in 55 countries, Schaeffler is one of the world’s largest family-own

Media Contact:

+49 9132 82 0
+49 9132 82 4950

SOURCE: Schaeffler AG

MORE ON SCHAEFFLER, ETC.: