Key Takeaways
- ZF Group emphasizes AI’s role in transforming the automotive industry, enhancing safety, driving comfort, and production efficiency.
- The company’s commitment to the Chinese market includes significant investments and collaborations on innovative automotive technologies.
- ZF’s localized production and R&D efforts focus on addressing regional needs and expanding its product lineup in the world’s largest auto market.
ZF Group’s Commitment to Advancing China’s Automotive Industry
Holger Klein, CEO of ZF Group, affirmed the company’s dedication to the advancement of China’s automobile industry during the recent China Development Forum in Beijing. He emphasized the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on mobility, driven by interconnected systems that adapt vehicle dynamics according to road conditions.
A crucial element in this transformation is ZF’s development of cubiX, an AI-based software that synchronizes vehicle controllers—such as steering, braking, and suspension—to enhance drivers’ experience in terms of safety and comfort. ZF, a global leader in chassis technology, offers a comprehensive array of electronically controlled steering and braking systems, which, when combined with cubiX, lay the foundation for the future of software-defined vehicles.
Klein highlighted the progress made by ZF’s Chinese team, particularly in developing AI-based off-road recognition software that employs chassis data to improve vehicle performance in difficult terrain and enhance overall safety. Additionally, ZF integrates analytical AI algorithms into its production processes. AI-driven predictive maintenance and quality inspection systems within ZF’s smart factories in China ensure high efficiency and minimal downtime, maintaining high product reliability.
“China has long been at the forefront of AI innovation,” said Klein, commending the country’s advancements in technology and the standards set by its leading firms and startups. ZF is capitalizing on these opportunities by investing in robust data infrastructures, AI competencies, and workforce development, boasting more than 20 AI-driven projects across its operations in China.
The company’s ongoing commitment to the Chinese market is evident through its sustained investment in innovation and local eco-partnerships. Klein noted that China, as the world’s largest automotive market, remains strategic for ZF. Recent efforts include the rollout of ZF’s localized active kinematics control system at its Zhangjiagang campus, scheduled to enhance well-known domestic models like the Nio ET9 sedan.
In 2023, ZF continued to expand its production capabilities in China, notably through a facility in Wuhan dedicated to electric park braking calipers and the launch of its third E-mobility plant in Shenyang. The company also established a joint venture in Guangzhou focused on automotive safety electronics, reinforcing its “local for local” strategy by granting more autonomy to its Asia-Pacific headquarters in Shanghai.
ZF’s R&D efforts in China are led by Chinese engineers and include collaboration with various automotive companies. Recently, ZF deepened its strategic partnership with Foton for the global introduction of the new hybrid transmission TraXon 2 Hybrid. Moreover, an agreement with Geely’s commercial vehicle brand Farizon aims to develop an array of new energy vehicle products and intelligent solutions.
Renee Wang, executive vice-president of ZF Group and president of ZF China and Operation Asia-Pacific, emphasized the company’s longstanding commitment to China, highlighting its adaptability and responsiveness to the complex market conditions. ZF intends to continue promoting localization in production, R&D, and talent acquisition while strengthening partnerships to effectively service the Chinese market and facilitate industrial upgrading.
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