Filters
Your Selections
    Reset
    Save Cancel
    Asset
    Published
    Vehicle Domain
    Topical Categories
    Supplier
    OEM
    Region / Country/Territory
    FISITA World Mobility Conference 2025: Key themes and concerns for the automotive industry
    One thing is abundantly clear after the FISITA World Mobility Conference (WMC) last week. Megatrends impact everything. No longer can chassis development, braking, safety validation and so forth stand alone without impact from the broader drive towards electrification, the AI revolution or SDVs, to name a few.  The event’s sessions gave the impression that electrification is already baked into the industry, particularly in Europe where the debate on (regulation-pushed) direction is ...
    Insights
    Beyond horsepower: Compute becomes the new competitive edge for OEMs
    Automotive compute power is becoming a defining metric of vehicle capability — not just for autonomy, but across cockpit systems, connectivity and life-cycle software deployment. As vehicles transition toward centralized electrical/electronic (E/E) architectures and software-defined platforms, silicon performance is now a core determinant of what a vehicle can do — and how long it will remain competitive in the field. Two metrics have emerged as industry standards for measuring this compu...
    Insights
    ZF launches next-generation smart chassis sensor
    ZF unveiled an enhanced version of its smart chassis sensor, following its initial launch in the Cadillac Celestiq. This next-generation sensor expands its capabilities beyond measuring wheel height to include three-dimensional acceleration capture, facilitating advanced functionalities such as real-time chassis health monitoring and active noise cancellation. It aligns with ZF's Chassis 2.0 strategy, integrating seamlessly with other systems to enhance features such as precise feedback in steer...
    News
    ZF develops AI-based solution to accurately monitor temperature of electric motors
    ZF has introduced an AI-based solution, called TempAI, that enhances temperature management in electric drives, increasing forecast accuracy by over 15% and therefore allowing for more precise thermal utilization of electric machines. TempAI operates on a platform that quickly generates physically based models from measurement data, requiring minimal computing resources and making it cost-efficient for series production. According to Stefan Sicklinger, head of AI, Digital Engineering ...
    News
    Chassis matters: On a roll with ZF
    The automotive industry is changing rapidly, and trends in steering technology are essential for improving vehicle performance and safety. In the last decade, the shift to electric vehicles has led to the widespread use of electric power steering (EPS), making cars lighter, more efficient, and responsive. This shift introduces features like steer-by-wire, which enhances design flexibility and supports autonomous driving. Steer-by-wire technology will transform vehicle handling, enabling innov...
    Insights
    ZF develops new SELECT platform to improve electric drive system efficiency and adaptability
    In a press release dated June 3, ZF announced that it has developed a new SELECT e-drive platform for all-electric passenger car drives from the 100 kW to 300 kW power range. The newly developed electric drive system based on the SELECT platform outperforms current series production technology efficiency and power density. The platform integrates innovations at both the system and component levels and is designed for ease of industrialization. The components are optimized for automated produc...
    News
    ZF introduces TherMaS for improved thermal management in EVs
    ZF has introduced TherMaS, an advanced thermal management system designed to enhance the range of battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles by efficiently managing temperature without the need for larger batteries or more expensive drivetrains. This system uses propane as a refrigerant, which significantly improves cooling performance, thus resulting in a smaller and lighter design. It optimizes the use of waste heat from the drivetrain, enhancing electric range by up to 10% in winter and up ...
    News
    Auto Shanghai 2025: ZF showcases range extender for electric drives, connected chassis
    Germany's automotive component supplier ZF is making a significant impact at the ongoing Auto Shanghai 2025, which is being organized in Shanghai between April 23 and May 2. The international motor show highlights advancements in passenger cars, commercial vehicles and charging infrastructure, bringing together key stakeholders to promote sustainable mobility. As one of the world’s leading automotive suppliers, ZF is committed to investing in the growth of the Chinese market and the broader...
    News
    The shift to steer-by-wire systems - Interview with ZF
    Steer-by-wire (SbW) systems are a modern approach in automotive steering technology that replace traditional mechanical connections with electronic controls. This system utilizes sensors and actuators to manage steering inputs, allowing for precise control without the need for physical linkages. SbW systems offer several advantages, including the ability to adjust the steering ratio based on driving conditions, which can enhance maneuverability in urban settings and stability at higher speeds. ...
    Insights
    ZF secures significant order for AxTrax 2 Electric Axle for commercial vehicles in India
    ZF’s Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) division has secured a multiyear business nomination to supply several thousand units of its electric axle, the AxTrax 2, with a leading manufacturer in India, the company announced April 16. It said that the deal will see the AxTrax 2 integrated into a new fleet of zero-emissions intercity buses, further deepening ZF’s extensive presence in India’s growing commercial vehicle electrification sector. According to the company, its AxTrax 2 electr...
    News
    ZF enhances ProAI for optical multigigabit Ethernet in vehicles
    German automotive supplier ZF has enhanced its ProAI high-performance computer to support optical multigigabit Ethernet in automotive applications, leveraging newly developed chips and connectors. This advancement is in line with the IEEE 802.3cz standard, enabling ultrafast data transmission over automotive-grade optical fibers. Oliver Briemle, head of Cross-Domain Computing at ZF, highlighted this development as crucial for the electrical systems of future software-defined vehicles, offering t...
    News
    ZF begins series production of steer-by-wire systems for Nio ET9 electric SUV
    ZF has started series production of steer-by-wire (SBW) steering systems for the Nio ET9 electric sport utility vehicle, the Germany-based supplier said in a press release on Feb. 17. The company is supplying both the steering wheel actuator for steering and for displaying the steering feel as well as the redundant steering gear actuator and the associated software. “With our production-ready steer-by-wire steering system, we are launching the era of the software-defined vehicle. With an en...
    News
    ZF Lifetec introduces Active Heel Airbag to enhance occupant safety
    ZF Lifetec, the Passive Safety Systems business division of the ZF Group, has developed the Active Heel Airbag that can protect occupants against serious foot injuries in front seats. The innovative airbag can be adapted to any vehicle body type (hatchback, sedan or sport utility vehicle), and it can be integrated directly into the footwell without requiring additional space. In the event of a crash, the airbag inflates under the wheel carpet, providing necessary heel stability. ZF will make its...
    News
    ZF secures ASPICE Level 2 certification for autonomous parking project
    On Feb. 6, ZF Group announced the successful third-party audit and certification of its Zeekr parking project, targeting Zeekr's vehicle models, for the ASPICE Capabilities Level 2. This initiative was led by ZF's Electronics and Advanced Driver Assistance System division within its Asia-Pacific region, marking the company's first global software quality certification. The certification highlights the division's technical and management proficiency in automotive software development as acknowled...
    News
    ZF unveils EasyTurn axle concept in India to boost vehicle maneuverability
    ZF has unveiled its EasyTurn suspension strut axle concept in India, an advanced development aimed at revolutionizing vehicle maneuverability. This innovative axle design significantly increases the steering angle of front axles to 80°, up from the conventional 40-45°, thereby enhancing the ability of vehicles to make sharper turns and navigate tight spaces with increased agility. Specifically tailored to improve the efficiency of urban driving, the EasyTurn axle addresses the challenges po...
    News
    ZF wins contract to supply brake-by-wire technology from global OEM
    ZF has secured a contract to supply brake-by-wire technology to a global automaker, where the Germany-based supplier will equip nearly 5 million vehicles with its electro-mechanical braking (EMB) over the length of the arrangement.    ZF's agreement includes the volume production of brake-by-wire technology and advanced steering in a specific vehicle class. The project features a hybrid braking system that combines EMB and by-wire technology for the rear brakes with integrated brake...
    News
    ZF completes testing of advanced smart camera for automated driving
    As reported on Nov. 26, ZF has completed testing and validation of its advanced, next-generation forward-facing Smart Camera 6, designed for automated driving and advanced driver assistance systems. The achievement was facilitated by utilizing the logiRECORDER Automotive HIL Video Loggers developed by Xylon, a company recognized for its innovative solutions in data logging and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations for ADAS and autonomous driving technologies.  The logiRECORDER is praise...
    News
    ZF expands electronic power steering production in mainland China
    ZF Automotive Technologies (Shanghai) Co., a subsidiary of the ZF Group, has signed an investment agreement with the Shanghai Anting Economic Development Center to initiate the second phase of expansion to produce electronic power steering (EPS) system products in mainland China. This new phase of expansion of ZF's EPS plant in Antang, mainland China, follows the successful completion of the first phase, which began with an agreement in July 2022 and concluded in May 2023. The move to further...
    News
    ZF launches 800-V test and validation laboratory in the UK
    As reported in a press release on Oct. 14, ZF has inaugurated the HV Test & Validation Laboratory within its Research and Development Hub, with the purpose of fast-tracking the implementation of 800-V architecture in electric vehicles. The development aims to enhance efficiency, charging and vehicle performance. The laboratory's creation, which was partially funded by the APC, facilitates crucial high-voltage (HV) testing for ZF and its clients, promoting the adoption of 800-V benefits. A...
    News
    ZF revises full-year financial outlook for 2024
    ZF Group has revised its financial outlook for the current financial year ending Dec. 31, 2024, the Germany-based auto component supplier said in a press release on Sept. 27. Under the revised forecast, the company expects group sales between €40 billion and €42 billion compared to €42.5 billion and €43.5 billion earlier. Less-than-expected growth in sales is expected to hurt ZF’s earnings and cash flow. The company expects adjusted earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) to be be...
    News
    Foton Motor and ZF Group form strategic partnership for hybrid drive systems
    During the IAA Transportation 2024 in Hannover, Germany, Foton Motor and ZF Group entered into a strategic cooperation agreement aimed at bringing advanced commercial vehicle hybrid drive systems to the Chinese market, addressing the diverse requirements of the new-energy transformation. This partnership builds on the successful collaboration in the TraXon commercial vehicle automatic transmission and electric drive project, leading to the formation of ZF Foton Automatic Transmission (Jiaxing) C...
    News
    ZF Lifetec inaugurates new Global Competency Centre in Hyderabad, India
    ZF Lifetec, the passive safety systems business division of the ZF Group, has inaugurated a new Global Competency Centre (GCC) in Hyderabad, Telangana, India, Autocar Professional reported on Sept. 12. The center, situated in Gachibowli's Wipro Circle, is dedicated to bringing innovations in passive safety systems, including airbags, seat belts and steering systems. It focuses on the integration of software, electronics and mechanical design to cater to both the India market and international cl...
    News
    ZF Rane Automotive invests $11.9 million in new airbag inflator manufacturing plant and sled test facility in India
    ZF Rane Automotive, a joint venture between the Rane Group from India and the ZF Group from Germany, has inaugurated a new inflator manufacturing plant and a sled test facility located in Tiruchirappalli (Trichy), Tamil Nadu, India, Autocar Professional reported Sept. 13. The two partners have invested 1 billion Indian rupees (about $11.9 million) in the new plant and sled test facility. The investment will boost the local production of airbags and enhance testing capabilities within the re...
    News
    ZF, Infineon team up for EEmotion project to develop AI algorithm-based control system for automated driving
    ZF and Infineon have jointly developed and implemented AI algorithms for the development and control of vehicle software as part of the EEmotion project, which was cofunded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. These algorithms play a crucial role in precisely controlling vehicle movements such as platooning, lane changing, acceleration and braking without human intervention. The project has successfully demonstrated these algorithms in a test vehicle, opti...
    News
    ZF Group plans to spend €2 billion in India by 2030 to expand material sourcing
    The ZF Group plans to spend €2 billion by 2030 to increase material sourcing from India for both its local and global operations, ETAuto reported Aug. 28. This ambitious expansion in sourcing activities from India is aimed at supporting its diverse businesses including passenger cars, commercial vehicles and various segments of industrial technology such as wind power. Presently, ZF spends about 600 million rupees (about $7.15 million) annually on sourcing materials from India. Akash P...
    News
    ZF expands electric car axle drive manufacturing capacity at Saarbrücken, Germany
    ZF plans to expand capacity at its manufacturing plant in Saarbrücken, Germany, by adding two more electric car axle drives to its local production operations, the company announced Aug. 8. The move is aimed at preparing the ZF site to react in a timely and more flexible manner to market developments. The capacity expansion is financed, among other sources, by the Future Fund, which ZF launched together with employees in 2022. The Saarbrücken-based production plant is one of the largest ...
    News
    ZF announces changes in senior management team
    ZF has announced changes in its senior management team, according to a company’s press release on July 15. Stephan von Schuckmann will step down from the board of management by July 31 due to family reasons, at his own request. In his absence, ZF CEO Holger Klein will be responsible for Electrified Powertrain Technologies. Klein will also oversee ZF's business in the Asia-Pacific region. Another board member, Prof. Peter Laier, will assume von Schuckmann's duties for Material Management. ...
    News
    EIB grants €425 million promotional loan for ZF to pursue innovation in braking and steering systems
    The European Investment Bank (EIB) has granted a €425 million promotional loan to ZF Friedrichshafen to support the Germany-based supplier's €1.3 billion investment in research and development, according to the company’s press release on July 15. This funding aims to advance innovative technologies in braking and steering systems, particularly focusing on the transition toward software-defined vehicles (SDVs) and enhancing ZF's competitiveness in the evolving mobility sector. ZF, known ...
    News
    ZF Lifetec unveils advanced seat-integrated belt tensioner ACRS8.S for connected and automated vehicles
    ZF Lifetec has introduced the ACR8.S, a new version of its active belt tensioner, which supports the advancement toward connected and automated driving. The ACR8.S, a seat-integrated version of the current fourth-generation ACR8 active belt tensioner, offers enhanced design freedom for vehicle interiors by enabling the integration of the restraint system directly into the seat. This integration not only allows for a superior protected seating position for occupants prior to a potential crash ...
    News
    US government to offer $1.7 billion in grants to convert existing plants to manufacture electric vehicles and components
    The Biden administration plans to award $1.7 billion in grants to General Motors (GM), Stellantis and others to convert existing plants to manufacture electric vehicles and components. The fund will be provided by the US Department of Energy under “Domestic Automotive Manufacturing Conversion Grants” to 11 “shuttered or at risk” plants in Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland and Virginia. The grant aims to bolster the US auto industry's competitiveness, reta...
    Briefing
    ZF LIFETEC unveils innovative Dual Stage Side Airbag to enhance occupant protection
    ZF LIFETEC has introduced pre-crash Dual Stage Side Airbag (Dual Stage SAB), designed to enhance occupant protection during side collisions, the company said in a press release on July 4. The advanced airbag system deployment occurs in two stages. The tech initiates the first stage approximately 200 milliseconds before an unavoidable crash to create space between the occupants and the expected impact point by pushing them a few centimeters into the vehicle interior. This preparatory action ...
    News
    ZF LIFETEC introduces innovative airbag for automated driving vehicles
    ZF LIFETEC has developed an advanced airbag for automated driving vehicles, the company said in a press release on June 19. The new airbag is a dual-contour airbag for the passenger side, which can be inflated in two different sizes, depending on the seating position of the occupant. The German supplier is also developing dual-contour airbags for the driver’s side for use in such vehicles. Level 3 and Level 4 autonomy will allow drivers to hand over driving control to the vehicle’s automa...
    News
    NXP Semiconductors and ZF collaborate on silicon carbide-based traction inverter solutions
    NXP Semiconductors NV and ZF Friedrichshafen AG, an e-mobility global leader, have announced a collaboration on next-generation silicon carbide (SiC)-based traction inverter solutions for electric vehicles, according to a press release on June 4. NXP will supply its advanced GD316x high-voltage (HV) isolated gate drivers, which will be integrated into ZF's 800-V SiC-based traction inverter solutions. The products aim to accelerate the adoption of 800-V and SiC power devices, improving sa...
    News
    How the software-defined vehicle trend is driving innovation in chassis features
    Steer-by-wire technology (SbW) eliminates the mechanical connection between the steering wheel and steering rack, relying solely on electronic communication. It offers numerous benefits for manufacturers and drivers, including the ability to produce a “dry” chassis without hydraulic fluid. It also opens possibilities for semi-autonomous safety systems and alternative steering controls. The systems are fully redundant, ensuring backup functionality in case of hardware or software failures. Sb...
    Insights
    ZF, Foxconn form $1.1B JV for global chassis module supply
    ZF Friedrichshafen AG, a leading automotive supplier, and Foxconn, the world's largest electronics manufacturer, have formed a 50/50 joint venture called ZF Foxconn Chassis Modules to leverage expansion opportunities in the global market for axle system assembly and new customer access. The JV combines ZF's engineering competence and Foxconn's global network and supply chain management expertise, aiming to secure presence in growth segments and engage in future markets. The venture, headed by...
    News
    ZF Group invests $12 million for expansion in Mexico
    ZF Group has made an investment of over $12 million to expand its operations in Querétaro, Mexico, Mexico Now reported April 22. The investment reflects the company's confidence in the region and marks a significant milestone by introducing the first steer-by-wire line with steering wheel actuators. Andreas Temmen, vice president of Steerling Product Line Operations at ZF Group, presented the details of the project to a delegation led by the governor of Querétaro during the annual Hannover ...
    News
    ZF opens new campus in Monterrey, Mexico; expands North American operations
    ZF, a global technology company, has opened a new campus in Monterrey, Mexico, which houses four corporate function hubs for North America and the company's first research and development center in the country. The campus is located within the FINSA Guadalupe Industrial Park and covers an area of 43,294 square meters. The new building completes the Monterrey campus, which is a strategic complex for the leading automotive technology company at a regional and global level. The campus featu...
    News
    Bosch, Lennox, Samsung eye Johnson Controls HVAC business ‒ report
    According to a Reuters report dated March 23, Robert Bosch GmbH, Lennox International, and Samsung Electronics are among the industrial firms competing to acquire heating and ventilation assets worth over $6 billion from Johnson Controls International, quoting sources. The report further added that Milwaukee-based Johnson Controls has been working with its advisers to sell its residential and light commercial businesses, including a U.S. business and a 60% stake in an air-conditioning venture...
    News
    ZF LIFETEC rebrands, eyes growth in safety equipment market
    ZF Group, a leading automotive supplier, has rebranded its Passive Safety Systems division as "ZF LIFETEC". The new branding is part of the company's legal separation of the Passive Safety Systems division, which was initiated in October 2022. ZF LIFETEC aims to further increase sales and profitability as a standalone business driven by megatrends in the automotive industry and increasingly stringent safety regulations. The company has achieved sales of around €4.7 billion in 2023 and is on...
    News
    ZF posts 6.5% year-over-year increase in full-year 2023 group sales to €46.6 billion
    ZF Friedrichshafen has posted a 6.5% year-on-year (y/y) growth in full year 2023 sales to €46.6 billion ($50.66 billion), a company filing on March 21 showed. Adjusted EBIT came in at €2.4 billion compared to €2 billion a year earlier while adjusted EBIT margin was 5.1% compared to 4.7% in 2022. Net profit fell to €126 million from €376 million due to significantly higher income taxes for the year. The company spent €3.5 billion in R&D during the year, up from €3.4 billion it s...
    Briefing
    ZF opens zero-emission factory in Czech Republic, setting global standard for sustainability
    ZF, a technology company, has opened its first zero-emission factory in Klášterec nad Ohří, Czech Republic, after a renovation period of almost 18 months. The plant, which is part of ZF's Electrified Powertrain Technology division, serves as a blueprint for all ZF plants worldwide. The company is transitioning to sustainably generated energy at all locations, increasing energy efficiency, electrifying a significant portion of its products and using recycled materials. The Klášterec plan...
    News
    ZF Group opens 19th manufacturing plant in India
    ZF, one of the largest suppliers of automotive systems for passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles and industrial technology, has inaugurated its 19th manufacturing plant in India at Oragadam in Tamil Nadu. With an 18 billion rupees (about $216.7 million) project outlay, ZF plans to strengthen its manufacturing presence and expansion in India with investment realization by 2030, Business Standard reported Feb. 14, quoting the company. Spread over an area of 44.08 acres, the new manufacturing ...
    News
    ZF plans $500 million investment in US transmission plant
    ZF plans a $500 million investment in its Gray Court, SC, facility, a company press release stated on Feb. 6. Offering everything from traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) to e-mobility technologies, for both passenger car and commercial vehicle applications, ZF Gray Court is officially the company’s first North American flex manufacturing facility. The plan opened in 2010, and it continues growth through the introduction of high-quality and highly advanced technologies fo...
    News
    ZF unveils smart seatbelt technology
    ZF Passive Safety Systems has developed a new seatbelt system that can adapt to the size and weight of vehicle occupants in the event of an accident, it said in a press release dated Jan. 30. The core of the technology is called Multi-Stage Load Limiter (MSLL), which is responsible for the individual system adjustment. This technology allows for more flexibility in belt forces, reducing the consequences of accidents for all occupants. The approach of this technology lies in the individual con...
    News
    ZF Friedrichshafen could spin off airbag unit in IPO ‒ report
    German auto supplier ZF Friedrichshafen is preparing to sell its airbag operation to a buyer or spin off the business in an IPO, but will not do so below value. The company's works council boss Achim Dietrich told a press conference that an IPO was being prepared as the company was not finding many interested direct buyers for the Airbag division, Reuters reported on Jan. 18, quoting the company. ZF has been looking for a buyer for the airbag unit, which employs about 35,000 people, since 202...
    News
    Goodyear and ZF integrate tire intelligence technologies with vehicle motion control software
    Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. has partnered with ZF to integrate their technologies, according to a press release dated Jan. 9. Goodyear’s SightLine will be combined with ZF’s cubiX to provide enhanced driving dynamics and improved safety features. The integration of tire intelligence technologies with vehicle motion control software allows for the feeding of tire and road data into the chassis system. This results in a better driving experience with improved comfort, control and efficie...
    News
    Automotive Supplier Outlook 2024
    The automotive industry grappled with a range of challenges this year, including ongoing supply chain disruptions, chip shortages, rising energy costs, inflation, recession fears, waning consumer demand, a shift towards software and electronics, labor shortages, strike action, and volatile order forecasts. It also faced several geopolitical concerns and challenges, including the ongoing trade tensions between the US and China, which resulted in tariffs and trade barriers that disrupted global su...
    Insights
    ZF's pioneering influence in 2023 and beyond
    ZF's steer-by-wire (SbW) innovations and future market projections: ZF showcased advanced X-by-Wire technologies at IAA Mobility 2023, encompassing SbW, brake-by-wire (BBW) and active damping. These technologies collectively create a highly integrated and responsive vehicle control system, marking a significant leap toward software-defined vehicles. ZF’s SbW systems enable full autonomous control for shuttles and robo-taxis, with added features such as retractable steering wheels and imp...
    Insights
    UAW workers at ZF plant in Alabama approve labor deal, end strike – report
    United Auto Workers (UAW) union members who went on strike at ZF's plant in Alabama, US, in September, demanding higher pay and better healthcare benefits, have ended a nearly month-long walkout. The union said the strike by 190 workers was over after a tentative agreement had been ratified. Workers in September had rejected an earlier contract offer, Reuters reported October 20. ZF, which makes front axles used by Mercedes-Benz at its nearby Alabama plant, said in September the Tuscaloosa, A...
    News
    ZF automated transmission systems TraXon reaches 1 millionth production milestone
    The Commercial Vehicle Solutions division of German supplier ZF announced a significant production milestone of manufacturing 1 million units of the TraXon transmission system. In 2022, TraXon reached the 500,000 unit milestone. At that time, the transmission was made almost exclusively at the main plant in Friedrichshafen, Germany. After production was expanded globally to ZF’s plants in Jiaxing, China, and Sorocaba, Brazil, it has taken just 18 months to double the number of units to...
    News
    ZF develops magnet-free distinctively compact electric motor
    German supplier ZF said it has developed an electric motor that does not require magnets. ZF's In-Rotor Inductive-Excited Synchronous Motor (I²SM) transmits the energy for the magnetic field via an inductive exciter inside the rotor shaft. This makes the motor uniquely compact with maximum power and torque density, according to the company’s September 1 press release. The supplier said this advanced variant of a separately excited synchronous motor (SESM) is an alternative to permanen...
    News
    ZF develops predictive adaptive cruise control with up to 8% higher range
    ZF has developed a predictive adaptive cruise control (ACC) that can allow for up to 8% more range, it said in a press release on August 16. This is primarily due to a Model Predictive Control (MPC) optimization algorithm from Embotech. It evaluates map information such as uphill and downhill gradients and curves, as well as in-vehicle information about the optimal operating points of the powertrain in real time. “Eco Control 4 ACC is a game-changer in CO2 emissions reductions. The saving p...
    News
    Connected belt from ZF actively boosts occupant-seating position
    German automotive supplier ZF has developed a new networked seat belt that uses sensors to actively shift occupants into a more optimal seating position before a potential collision. If the system is alerted to a potentially dangerous situation, the belt shifts the occupant in the seat, which can enhance the functionality of the restraint system. The heart of the system is the Active Control Retractor (ACR) 8 electromechanical belt tensioner, which can also reduce belt slack or alert t...
    News
    ZF invests in airbag-production base and research and development center in China
    ZF Group signed an agreement with the Wuhan Economic Development Zone (WEDZ), in central China’s Hubei province, where ZF will invest in an automotive airbag production and research and development (R&D) center, setting up the ZF Wuhan Automotive Safety Systems (Wuhan) Co. Ltd. with a peak annual output expected to reach 3 billion yuan (about $417 million), the company said in a press release dated July 21. According to ZF, the project covers an area of about 67,000 square meters, with ...
    News
    ZF Group partners with Foxconn to develop passenger-car chassis systems
    ZF Friedrichshafen AG (ZF Group) and Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn) announced a 50-50 partnership in passenger-car chassis systems with an aim of accelerating and expanding automotive and supply chain opportunities with top-tier customers, the company announced July 24. As part of this partnership, Foxconn plans to acquire a 50% stake in ZF Chassis Modules GmbH, a unit of ZF Group that bundles the passenger-car axle-systems assembly and has an enterprise value of approximately €1 billio...
    News
    ZF merges Chassis and Active Safety Technology to form Chassis Solutions division
    German auto component supplier ZF announced June 29 that the company is merging the divisions for Passenger Car Chassis Technology and Active Safety Technology to form a new and uniquely comprehensive Chassis Solutions division. ZF plans to officially launch the newly formed division in January 2024. It said that all mobility segments are expected to benefit from the developments and know-how of this new ZF division in the future. The company said that the new unit bundles ZF’s entire ch...
    News
    ZF develops an ultracompact, lightweight 800-V electric drive for passenger cars
    Leading German automotive component supplier ZF has developed an ultracompact, lightweight 800-V electric drive, which is optimized to deliver increased driving range in cold temperatures, ZF said in a press note June 29. The company demonstrated its all-new innovative electric driveline equipped in a concept car — EVbeat — on the sidelines of its Global Technology Day in Friedrichshafen, Germany. The electric drive, named EVSys800, weighs just 74 kg and has a torque density of ...
    News
    ZF Services UK to launch new-generation autonomous Level 4 shuttle
    ZF Services UK is set to launch the new-generation autonomous Level 4 shuttle, it said in a press release June 14. The new shuttle will leverage ZF’s latest autonomous driving hardware and software taking it to Level 4 autonomous driving capability. The shuttle has the capacity to carry up to 22 passengers. It can operate on defined routes and can handle mixed traffic without a safety steward. “At ZF, we invest heavily in research and development to ensure we can bring future te...
    News
    ZF in partnership with Tevva develops an efficient regenerative-braking system
    German automotive supplier, ZF in collaboration with British electric vehicle manufacturer Tevva, has developed a regenerative-braking system on its 7.5 metric ton battery-electric truck, which is four times more efficient. As part of the partnership, ZF is closely collaborating with Tevva engineers to integrate its electronic brake system (EBS) for use in zero-emission Tevva electric trucks, the company said June 13. Significance: Technological advancements allow a modern EBS system to ...
    News
    ZF invests in steering wheel production site in China
    ZF Group has reached an agreement with the management committee of the Shandong Rizhao Economic and Technological Development Zone for a new project, which will see the auto-parts maker set up an automotive steering wheel project, INF News reported May 29. ZF will initially invest €20 million to start mass production within three months of the signing of the agreement. Once the project enters the final stage, it is expected that the annual output value will exceed 800 million Chinese yuan (...
    News
    ZF prepares to produce PowerLine transmission in the US
    ZF announced May 23 the installation of a new production line of its PowerLine 8-speed automatic transmission as part of the $200 million investment in the ZF Transmissions Gray Court, SC, manufacturing facility that will meet all US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) requirements. Significance: The ZF PowerLine transmission is designed to be used in trucks, buses and other commercial vehicles, up to some vocational Class 8 applications. It is based on ZF’s 8-speed aut...
    News
    KPIT partners with ZF to promote an independent company QORIX to develop automotive-middleware stack
    KPIT Technologies and ZF Group announced setting up an independent company named QORIX to develop and distribute open and scalable middleware products and solutions for the mobility ecosystem, the company said on May 4. QORIX is currently a subsidiary of KPIT, fully focused on middleware-solution development. ZF shall invest 50% toward equity in QORIX pending regulatory approvals. It will build on the expertise and relevant intellectual properties (IPs) of KPIT and ZF to develop open and...
    News
    ZF signs multiyear supply agreement with STMicroelectronics for SiC devices
    German supplier, ZF has signed an agreement with STMicroelectronics (ST), a global semiconductor player to purchase Silicon Carbide (SiC) devices starting 2025. Under the terms of the multiyear contract, ST will supply a volume of double-digit millions of SiC devices that will be integrated in ZF’s new modular inverter architecture going into series production in 2025. ZF will leverage ST’s vertically integrated SiC manufacturing in Europe and Asia to secure customer orders in elec...
    News
    ZF invests €39.6 million in Toluca, Mexico chassis plant
    ZF has announced an investment of approximately €39.6 million through 2024 to expand its manufacturing capabilities in Toluca, Mexico, according to a press release on April 11. ZF will establish a new manufacturing site which is expected to create an additional 150 jobs in the next two years and will be approximately 8,000 square meters larger than the existing plant it replaces. The new factory will have high-capacity assembly lines for the just-in-sequence production of the front and...
    News
    ZF begins production of electric drives for LCVs in Friedrichshafen, Germany
    ZF’s Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) division announced on April 12 that the company has started series production of its new CeTrax lite electric central drive. The all-new drive, which is developed using synergies from ZF’s development and production of passenger car drives, will be used in the light commercial vehicles (LCVs). According to the company, the new CeTrax lite, which is designed as a highly integrated electric drive, provides significant advantages for manufacturers worl...
    News
    Startup CarPay-Diem receives investment from ZF
    CarPay-Diem has received a strategic investment from ZF, the supplier said in a March 28 press release. CarPay-Diem will use the investment to position its technology for the next generation in-vehicle fueling services. It will be integrated with apps into the vehicle’s infotainment system. “With the investment, we can realize another strategic addition to our network of partnerships with the goal to enable customers to efficiently manage their fleets, optimize their costs and considerabl...
    News
    ZF invests over $194 million to expand EV related operations in Juarez, Mexico
    ZF Group will invest over $194 million to expand its e-mobility business in North America, according to a company press release on March 30. The company is building a new, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility at Juarez, Mexico, with a $150 million initial investment. “The e-mobility market continues to gain momentum in all major markets and ZF is investing to match the growth trajectory here in North America. This investment will further establish ZF as a leader in advanced e-mobility te...
    News
    Infineon coordinates research project to develop automotive supercomputing platform
    Infineon is coordinating a research project to develop automotive supercomputing platform, it said in a press release dated 28 February. The Mannheim-CeCaS (CentralCarServer) involves 30 research partners from industry and universities which is also supported by the German federal government. “The high level of acceptance enjoyed by driver assistance systems is a sign that there's no end in sight to the automation of driving. Here we're also talking about digital sovereignty in the interest...
    News
    Highlights from CES 2023
    Connected car highlights from CES 2023 The annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2023 was held in Las Vegas, Nevada, from 5–8 January. Organized by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), the annual event has become one of the biggest electronics shows in the world since the first edition in 1967. Participants span across various industries and countries, including automakers, consumer electronics companies, and suppliers, all showcasing new and innovative products and technologies. Giv...
    News
    ZF develops Smart Camera 6 for urban and highway automated driving and safety systems
    ZF has unveiled Smart Camera 6, it said in a press release dated 6 January. The next generation cameras will be used in the development of urban and highway automated driving and safety systems. Smart Camera 6 features a 120-degree field of view, over 4x higher image resolution (8-megapixels) from the previous generation and greater processing power. “We can offer systems that are focused on delivering popular functions such as Automatic Emergency Braking for safety and Highway Driving Assi...
    News
    ZF develops an innovative heated seat belt for EVs
    German automotive component and system solutions supplier ZF has developed a heated seat belt for electric vehicles (EVs) that can enhance the battery’s driving range by up to 15%, the company announced on 5 January 2023. The improvement in driving range is achieved by reducing the energy that is consumed in heating the vehicles in cold weather. The innovative solution’s energy efficiency is calculated in comparison with other contact heaters such as a seat heater. “During cold weath...
    News
    CES 2023: ZF to demonstrate ZF ProConnect connectivity platform
    ZF has announced that it would demonstrate its ZF ProConnect connectivity platform at CES 2023 in Las Vegas next month, according to a company press release dated 20 December. The platform connects vehicles with the cloud and with the traffic infrastructure. Having already received an order from an international automaker, the product will go into series production in 2025. Visitors at the show will be able to experience the technology in a demo car from autonomy and positioning specialist He...
    News
    ZF unveils innovative electric drives for passenger cars, light commercial vehicles
    German automotive component supplier ZF unveiled the latest generation of electric drives for light duty electric vehicles, including passenger cars and light commercial vehicles, on the sidelines of a corporate and technology presentation the company leadership gave to the media and analysts on 21 November 2022. The company said that it has developed a new electric drive platform that delivers outstanding power density and energy efficiency, thanks to the new innovations at component as well...
    News
    ZF achieves cumulative production of 2 million electric motors
    Germany-based automotive component supplier ZF announced on 10 November 2022 that it has achieve a milestone of producing 2 million electric motors. The company, which supplies electric motors for hybrid as well as electric axle drives for electric passenger cars, claims that it was first volume production supplier in Europe to bring out an electric motor for a premium mild hybrid in 2008. That said, the company has since expanded its product portfolio with technological innovations and ...
    News
    ZF to set up Passive Safety Systems Division independently by 2023
    ZF has announced the decision to independently set up Passive Safety Systems Division independently by the end of 2023, according to a company press release on 26 October. Passive safety technology systems include airbags, seat belts and steering wheels. “Strategically and financially, we are in a comfortable position with stable and decent profits. These are independent of the disruptive developments currently characterizing the automotive industry. At the same time, this business will ben...
    News
    ZF, NIO sign agreement to develop steer-by-wire technology
    ZF has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Chinese elective vehicle (EV) maker NIO to develop steer-by-wire (SBW) technology products and other fields, ZF said in a press release on 14 October. Dr. Holger Klein, Member of the Board of Management, ZF Group, said, "ZF's new steer-by-wire system is a market-leading, cutting-edge technology. We are excited to be working closely with NIO, an outstanding representative of the Chinese automotive industry that is actively engaged in technol...
    News
    ZF appoints Michael Frick as CFO
    ZF Friedrichshafen has appointed Michael Frick as its new chief financial officer, it said in a press release on 19 September. Frick succeeds Konstantin Sauer, who will leave ZF at the end of 2022. Sauer joined ZF in 1990 and served as the CFO since 2010. Frick will join ZF from automotive supplier Mahle, where he served as the CFO and interim chairman of the management board. Frick Joined Mahle Group as head of corporate controlling in 2003. He held various senior management roles in the ...
    News
    Centralizing E/E architectures: The key to efficient integrated chassis control
    Over the last few years developments in the driving assistance and automation feature market have driven demands for a new generation of automotive controllers that are able to process, analyze, and communicate increasingly large amounts of complex real-time data rapidly, efficiently, and flawlessly. A progressive electronification of vehicle systems, meanwhile, has led to the penetration of by-wire chassis systems equipped with electronic control units (ECUs) that process information fed fro...
    Insights
    ZF posts 9.7% y/y rise in sales for HY 2022 at USD21.69 billion
    ZF has posted a 9.7% year-on-year (y/y) increase in first half sales of fiscal 2022, according to its press release on 3 August. Sales came in at EUR21.22 billion (USD21.69 billion) compared to EUR19.34 billion a year earlier. Net profit slumped to EUR58 million, down from UR522 million last year. “The war in Ukraine, the pandemic-related lockdowns in China, the limited availability of semiconductors and significant inflation have affected our business. Our focus is on striking the right ba...
    News
    ZF gets multiple OEM contracts for steer-by-wire solution
    In a 19 July press release, ZF has announced that it has been awarded significant volume contracts for its steer-by-wire solution by multiple automakers. The product will launch in all major regions by 2023. “ZF’s smart by-wire systems end the era of mechanical connections and enable a new era of vehicle control. ZF’s steer-by-wire technology enables new safety and comfort features, like autonomous emergency evasive maneuvers or parking in very confined spaces. It marks a breakthrough o...
    News
    ZF to build to new airbag cushions manufacturing plant in mainland China
    German auto parts supplier ZF has announced that it will build a new EUR60 million (USD60.57 million) passive safety components production facility in Shandong province, mainland China, Invest in China reported on 12 July.    Renee Wang, president of ZF China and SVP of ZF Operations Asia Pacific, said, "We will continue to cultivate the Chinese market, enhance innovation and development capability, promote digital manufacturing, stay close to and lead the market and technology tren...
    News
    Foresight, ZF collaborate on joint proof of concept for electronics, ADAS
    Foresight Autonomous, an automotive vision systems developer has announced that it has signed an agreement for a joint proof of concept (POC) project with ZF North America, a subsidiary of ZF Friedrichshafen for automotive electronics and ADAS applications, according to a press release by Foresight on 15 June 2022. The company said that following Foresight's win in the ZF Pitch Event held during the 2022 CES expo in January 2022, the POC project was launched. Advanced driver assistance system...
    News
    ZF Friedrichshafen appoints Dr. Holger Klein as Chairman and CEO
    ZF Friedrichshafen has appointed Dr. Holger Klein as chairman and CEO, it said in a press release on 8 July 2022. Dr. Holger Klein will replace Wolf-Henning Scheider as chairman and CEO of ZF Friedrichshafen AG at the turn of the year 2022/23. At the same time, Dr. Peter Laier will join the Board of Management and succeed Wilhelm Rehm as the head of the Industrial Technology and Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) divisions. After many years of service, ZF Chief Financial Officer Dr. Konstantin S...
    News
    How driving assistance and automation are impacting the steer-by-wire systems market
    The current steering systems market is primarily controlled by low-end, column-motor systems in the entry and lower-midclass vehicle segments and high-end, rack-motor systems in the upper-midclass and premium-class vehicle segments. However, steer-by-wire (SBW) steering systems will dominate the future of light vehicle (LV) steering technology owing to advances in vehicle electrical architectures and semiconductor-based, integrated controller performance as well as the gradual penetration of dri...
    Insights
    ZF Friedrichshafen establishes new technology center in India
    Global technology company ZF Friedrichshafen has announced the establishment of a new technology centre in Hyderabad, India, according to a report published by The Hindu on 1 June 2022. The complex, which spans 300,000 square feet, is the group's largest software hub. It will be essential to the group's worldwide growth and positioning, as well as in India. In 2017, ZF Friedrichshafen launched its first operation in Hyderabad, which has now grown to over 2,900 employees. The IT center is on t...
    News
    Transforming interior concepts, autonomous vehicles pushing airbag technology trends
    Airbags have been one of the essential passive safety technologies in vehicles, along with seatbelts. Automakers developed the idea to use airbags as a supplemental restraint system (SRS) for added occupants’ safety. With increasing safety regulations from rating bodies, such as New Car Assessment Programs (NCAP) and other regulatory authorities globally, awareness among individuals about vehicle safety is also contributing to instrumental increase in vehicle airbags. This development has led ...
    Insights
    ZF signs eight-year zero-carbon-steel supply agreement with H2 Green Steel
    German manufacturer of automotive components ZF Group announced via a press release on 18 May that it had signed a long-term agreement with Swedish startup H2 Green Steel for the supply of zero-carbon steel. According to the agreement, H2 Green Steel will supply ZF 250,000 metric tons of zero-carbon steel annually from 2025 to 2032. The Swedish steel is expected to account for 10% of ZF’s annual steel requirements and will help the company reduce its carbon emissions by 475,000 metric ...
    News
    ZF Friedrichshafen begins construction of R&D center in Mexico
    ZF Friedrichshafen has started the construction of a new research & development (R&D) center for development and manufacturing of high-tech electronic products in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, according to an official press release by the Government of Nuevo León on 11 May 2022. ZF's investment exceeds USD300 million and would create more than 1,150 direct employments. “As ZF expands its footprint to meet the demand of the Next Generation of Mobility, we are pleased to have chosen...
    News
    ZF picks 6% stakes in AI vision software company StradVision
    Stadvision, AI vision software company announced that ZF has acquired 6% stake in StadVision to strengthen the company's automated driving perception software portfolio, according to a company press release on 29 March 2022. The company said that the partnership expands ZF's global ecosystem for Level 3 and Level 4 automated driving technologies. Additionally, the perception software would allow features and capabilities that comply with regulatory safety criteria as well as automated driving...
    News
    Aequita acquires ZF's Electronic Interfaces product line
    Germany-based Aequita has concluded an agreement to acquire ZF’s Electronic Interfaces product line to further strengthen its portfolio, the company announced in a press release on 21 March. Commenting on the deal, Thomas Buda, head of the Electronic Interfaces product line, said, "Aequita fully supports our strategic orientation. With the greatest possible independence under the umbrella of the AEQUITA Group, we have the best growth prospects, and we can work even more freely, agilely...
    News
    ZF Chassis Technology invests USD48 million in Toluca, Mexico plant
    Mexican subsidiary of German automotive parts manufacturer ZF, ZF Chassis Technology, announced that it will be investing USD48.4 million its Toluca plant, according to a 16 March news article published in MexicoNow. According to the article, the investment project will allow ZF to strengthen its production capacity at the national level to meet the demand for chassis system components from the growing automotive market. The capacity increase is expected to be completed by 2023. Signifi...
    News
    Could semi-active suspensions hold the key to ultra-high ride comfort for the mass-market car?
    Since the late 1990s, adaptive or semi-active suspension technology has emerged as the top method of improving the ride comfort and handling performance of a car, seeing application in segments ranging from mid-segment sedans to high-performance roadsters. This article will attempt to answer questions related to the principles that differentiate semi-active suspension systems from others, the trends and drivers behind its projected growth for the future, the top systems currently available an...
    Insights
    ZF presents Autonomous Transport Systems to UK’s transport department
    ZF has presented its autonomous shuttle to the Transportation Department of the UK, according to a company press release on 25 February. ZF has accelerated the development of shuttle technology through the collaboration of internal Research and Development teams. ZF Shuttle is an autonomous transport solution for governments and passenger transport organizations. “ZF Services UK has been supporting fleets and end users for fifty years across UK and Ireland and we look forward to suppor...
    News
    EV maker Polestar teams up with global suppliers on its first climate-neutral car project
    Swedish premium electric vehicle (EV) company Polestar, founded by Volvo and Geely Holding, is collaborating with some of the leading global automotive component suppliers, namely ZF Friedrichshafen AG, SSAB, Hydro, ZKW, and Autoliv, in the development of its first climate-neutral car, the company said on 23 February 2022. Polestar, which has named its first climate-neutral car as Polestar 0 Project, aims to mobilize the supply chain by working together on zero-emission technologies and rol...
    News
    ZF to assist Baidu’s smart EV brand Jidu in developing chassis, other components
    German automotive components supplier ZF Friedrichshafen AG will assist mainland Chinese technology company Baidu’s smart electric vehicle (EV) brand Jidu to develop chassis and other components, according to a report filed by the news publication Automotive News on 24 February 2022. While the two companies have signed an agreement this week, ZF will be responsible for developing chassis components and related digital interfaces under the said arrangement, the report said, citing Jidu....
    News
    ZF develops scalable and modular e-motor inverter architecture for electric vehicles
    Global supplier of automotive components ZF Friedrichshafen AG has developed a scalable and modular e-motor inverter architecture that can offer electric vehicle (EV) makers maximum flexibility from 400V to 800V, from silicon to silicon carbide, the company had announced on 4 January 2022. The company said that its innovative inverter combines advanced inverter design, next-generation power semiconductors, and highly intelligent software algorithms, leveraging its expertise in developing th...
    News
    The braking system industry in 2022 – Level 3 autonomy and beyond
    In the early 2010s, with the launch of the very first “driving assistance” systems, automakers began to rely on the braking system’s electronic stability control (ESC) unit, originally designed to improve driving stability, to decelerate the vehicle without driver input, in emergencies. Since then, system requirements have continuously expanded to accommodate growing demands for more powerful, sustained, and responsive autonomous braking capabilities needed for semi-automated and automated...
    Insights
    CES 2022: ZF launches next-generation chassis domain controller
    German auto parts manufacturer ZF announced via press release on 4 January that it had introduced its next high-performance Vehicle Motion Domain (VMD) Controller at the 2022 Consumer Electronics Show (CES). According to the press release, the controller, joining ZF’s family of ProAI supercomputers, will coordinate chassis and vehicle functions such as wheel guidance, damping, suspension, steering, and braking from a single unit, reducing the number of single function electronic contro...
    News
    CES 2022: VinFast, ZF partner to launch scalable automated driving systems
    VinFast has partnered with ZF to announce at CES 2022 that it will launch platforms with higher-level automated functions “in the near future”, a company press release dated 4 January read. ZF will supply multiple cameras, radars, and LiDAR sensors and the intelligent fusion of the sensors which will be integrated within an advanced ZF central control unit. This will allow VinFast and ZF to initially develop SAE Level 2+ functions and gradually work towards higher-level functions such as tra...
    News
    ZF increases its stake in Rane TRW to become majority shareholder
    Technology company ZF announced that the company has become a majority shareholder in the joint venture (JV) with TRW, according to a press release by Autocar Professional on 29 December. The JV will now operate under the name ZF Rane Automotive India. Suresh KV, president of ZF India, said, “The complementary nature of the partners has been the hallmark of this JV which has resulted in the organization performing consistently over the years. Supporting the Indian customer base with ZF engi...
    News
    ZF acquires stakes in Embotech to enhance operational safety
    According to an official press release dated 16 December, ZF announced a strategic partnership with Swiss-based Embotech, a pioneering developer of decision-making software that supports automated driving systems. The partnership will develop customer-tailored automated solutions to support multiple applications in order to provide a scalable and reliable solution for Transportation-as-a-Service (TaaS) on restricted areas. Logistics yards, ports, airports, mining and agricultural operations, as ...
    News
    ZF acquires 5% stake in software startup Apex.AI
    ZF has acquired a 5% stake in the software company Apex.AI, it said in a press release on 14 December. In addition to the financial support, ZF will also develop software solutions based on the Apex.OS meta-operating system. “Based on the Apex.OS, we can offer our customers an additional ZF Middleware option. This solution is certified to the highest standards of functional safety for passenger cars and commercial vehicles. Thus, we offer our customers an alternative to Autosar Adaptive,”...
    News
    loading
    Searching our resources for you...
    Trending News
    Latest Podcasts
    Latest Reports
    Latest Insights
    Latest Profiles
    Latest Startups
    preload preload preload preload preload preload