HOW THE GIANT SUPPLIER ZF IS BRINGING OEMS INTO THE DIGITAL AGE - AUTOLINE AFTER HOURS 624

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ZF, a century-old automotive supplier, is undergoing a significant transformation, shifting its focus from traditional transmissions to electronics and software. The company envisions itself as a technology provider for the mobility industry, with the microchip now seen as the 'new gear' and 'software first, digital always' as its guiding principle. ZF is strategically positioned across four key activity fields: e-mobility, automated driving, vehicle motion control, and integrated safety. While acknowledging the decline of traditional transmissions, ZF is fully prepared for the electrification trend, offering electric motors, power electronics, and inverters alongside one or two-speed transmissions. The company emphasizes leveraging economies of scale to reduce costs for OEMs and consumers. ZF is also actively involved in automated and autonomous driving, collaborating with Nvidia on high-performance computers for both passenger and commercial vehicles, with production slated to begin in two years. They are also focusing on Level 2+ driver assistance systems and Level 4 autonomous shuttles for specific applications like highway transit and shipping yards. ZF's approach to the EV transition involves integrating its workforce, providing extensive training, and retaining talent. The company is also open to flexible partnerships with OEMs, including co-development and manufacturing, and is actively engaging with EV startups to foster speed and agility. ZF is committed to investing in e-mobility, driven by strong market demand and regulatory support, and has made the strategic decision to cease investment in next-generation ICE transmissions.