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ZF, a leading global technology company, showcased its latest innovations at the Auto Shanghai motor show, including the connected “Chassis 2.0” and the electrified drive solution Range Extender. The company emphasized its commitment to the Chinese market and highlighted its investments in the region.
Key Highlights
- ZF presents connected “Chassis 2.0” and Range Extender at Auto Shanghai
- By-wire technologies gaining popularity among Chinese vehicle manufacturers
- ZF’s Chassis 2.0 concept addresses megatrends in the automotive industry
- New electric Range Extender system to enter production next year
- ZF demonstrates commitment to the Chinese market with significant investments
The Chassis 2.0 concept is ZF’s response to the megatrends of electrification, software-defined vehicles, and autonomous driving. It utilizes ZF’s cubiX software to seamlessly connect all chassis actuators, such as steering, brakes, and dampers, ensuring optimal performance in every driving situation. By-wire technologies play a crucial role in this concept, with ZF being a major supplier of electronically controlled steering and braking systems. The company has secured significant market share in this area, supplying the steer-by-wire system for NIO’s ET9 electric flagship and receiving a major order for brake-by-wire systems for nearly five million vehicles.
The Chassis 2.0 also features the sMOTION active suspension system, which prevents pitching and rolling during maneuvers, enhancing comfort and safety, especially for autonomous driving applications. This technology is already being used in some Porsche models and is generating interest among Chinese customers.
ZF also presented its newly developed electric Range Extender system, which combines a generator and driving mode in a single unit. Set to enter production in the first half of next year, this system offers several advantages, including suitability for extended-range all-wheel drive without a second drive system, compact design for easy integration, and high-efficiency operation of both the electric motor and combustion engine.
In the commercial vehicle sector, ZF showcased the AxTrax 2 integrated electric axle system and the TraXon 2 Hybrid transmission, aimed at promoting decarbonization. The company also presented advanced driver assistance systems and braking technologies to improve vehicle safety, comfort, and efficiency.
ZF reiterated its strong commitment to the Chinese market, where it has been operating for over 40 years. With more than 50 manufacturing locations and five research and development centers in China, the company has invested billions of euros in the region over the last five years. ZF has localized R&D and production of advanced technologies and has expanded its business relationships with Chinese vehicle manufacturers, increasing its market share in the passenger car, commercial vehicle, and industrial technology sectors.
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