From software-defined vehicles to AI-powered heat management and retractable steering wheels, ZF is turning futuristic concepts into production-ready realities.
Beyond Just Electric
“We have consistently aligned our product range with the future of passenger car mobility,” said ZF CEO Dr. Holger Klein, highlighting the company’s role in shaping the next generation of vehicles.
Global Megatrends Driving ZF’s Vision
Three megatrends form the backbone of ZF’s strategy:
- Software-defined vehicles
- Automated driving
- E-mobility
ZF is not just imagining the future—it is building it.
Chassis 2.0: Where Intelligence Meets the Road
ZF’s Chassis 2.0 concept transforms the chassis into an intelligent system.
- Steer-by-wire and brake-by-wire already serve customers across Europe and China.
- AKC rear axle steering, active damping, and electronic roll stabilization deliver smoother, safer rides.
- cubiX software integrates actuators—no matter the brand—to unlock advanced ADAS features.
This is more than stability. It’s a chassis that adapts to the way you drive.
SELECT Platform & TherMaS: Efficiency for EVs
Electric vehicles face two major challenges: efficiency and range. ZF has solutions.
- SELECT e-drive platform: A modular system that combines motors, inverters, gears, and software.
- TherMaS thermal management: Propane-based cooling that can boost EV range by up to 30% in harsh winter conditions.
In practical terms, that means fewer charging stops and more confidence in cold weather.
AI That Keeps Cars Healthy
ZF’s digital health monitoring predicts problems before they happen.
- Forecasts potential system failures
- Suggests repair recommendations
- Optimizes performance
With TempAI, ZF measures motor temperatures using AI—without extra hardware. This improves prediction accuracy by 15%.
ProAI: The Brain Behind the Wheel
Cars need serious computing power to support advanced driver-assist features. ZF ProAI delivers.
- Scalable central computer for every car type
- From entry-level models with basic parking assist
- To high-end systems capable of handling fully autonomous driving
Manufacturers also benefit from 30+ modular software functions for safety, comfort, and parking.
Comfort Meets Safety with ZF LIFETEC
ZF is rethinking car interiors with innovative safety and comfort solutions.
- Heat Belt 2.0: A seatbelt that warms passengers, reducing A/C load by up to 1000 W and extending EV range by 6%.
- Retractable steering wheel: Frees space in autonomous mode or when parked, supporting the trend of cars as “living spaces.”
Why It Matters
ZF isn’t just innovating—it’s reshaping the DNA of cars.
From extending EV range to making interiors more human-friendly, ZF shows that the car of the future is not just a machine, but a companion designed around people.