Schaeffler Technologies AG - a global automotive manufacturer of high-precision products and systems for engines, transmissions and chassis applications,like bearings - was named a 2012 Automotive News PACE (Premier Automotive Suppliers' Contribution to Excellence) Award winner for its UniAir fully variable valve lift system during an award ceremony held April 23 in Detroit. Schaeffler was one of 16 companies honored with the prestigious award that recognizes automotive suppliers for superior innovation, technological advancement.

According to Automotive News, this award recognizes automakers that do an exceptional job of collaborating with a supplier to develop an innovation in an effective way.

Additionally, the FAG company, together with Fiat Powertrain and the Chrysler Group, received an Innovation Partnership Award in recognition of their collaboration in the development of the system.The timing of the oil pressure required to open the engine valve is managed by a fast-switching solenoid valve. By controlling this oil pressure, the solenoid valve controls the shape of the valve lift curve such that early or late valve opening and/or closing is possible. Additionally and for the first time in mass production, the UniAir system facilitates the opening and closing of engine valves several times during one camshaft revolution.

The innovative system was honored in the product category, which recognizes innovations in new products, components or systems that have significant market impact and act as "game changers" in the automotive industry. The UniAir technology is a cam-actuated, electro-hydraulic valve train system that can be used in gasoline and diesel engines. With this system, a valvetrain component displaces oil in a gallery that pushes against the engine valve causing it to open.