Schaeffler signed a cooperation agreement with Chinese Southwest Jiaotong University (SWJTU) to establish a joint research laboratory. The research institution is located in the National Key Laboratory for Traction Drives and will be dedicated to the research and development of axlebox bearings for rail vehicles. The joint research project between Schaeffler and Southwest Jiaotong University (SWJTU) was sealed as part of the celebrations marking the 120th anniversary of the founding of the university. A delegation including CEO Industrial Dr. Stefan Spindler, Chief Digital Officer Gerhard Baum, and CEO Greater China Dr. Yilin Zhang took part in the celebrations and also discussed with the president of the university, Mr. Fei Xu, how advanced technology and business platforms from Germany can be combined effectively with the research capacities of SWJTU. As a session of the “Pioneering Technologies for Rail Transport” forum, Schaeffler held a roundtable discussion with presentations by speakers from the Schaeffler Group, Southwest Jiaotong University, and Chinese rail transport experts, followed by technical discussions. Chief Digital Officer Baum presented on the development of digitalization at Schaeffler and applications of big data technologies in the railway sector, such as systems for the predictive maintenance of axlebox bearings. Dr. Michael Holzapfel introduced Schaeffler’s comprehensive solutions for rail transport and offered insights into future innovations. More than 30 experts from Chinese rail vehicle manufacturers, suppliers, and research institutions took part in the forum. With this collaborative research project, Schaeffler is further expanding its global innovation network with universities. In order to design new solutions for the mobility for tomorrow, Schaeffler is combining the high level of creativity from its own engineers with the expertise of universities and external partners from all over the world. Southwest Jiaotong University (SWJTU) is known as the cradle of the Chinese railway engineers. The National Key Laboratory for Traction Drives is the most important research center at SWJTU, which pursues innovation research in the area of high-speed and heavy freight train technology. Schaeffler can look back on over 100 years of experience in the area of axlebox bearings for rail vehicles. The company develops and produces bearings of all kinds for use in rail transport, including axlebox bearings, traction motor and gearbox bearings, mechatronic products and systems as well as bearings and components for railcar connectors, braking and door systems.