ZF is showcasing its latest advancements in smart mobility at this year’s Busworld exhibition, bringing forward a robust lineup of technologies designed to make buses safer, more efficient, and better suited for a decarbonized future. With solutions that span across electrification, automation, intelligent chassis systems, digital connectivity, and safety, ZF is delivering tangible value for vehicle makers and fleet operators alike—driving down operational costs while raising overall performance.
Over the past three years, ZF’s bus segment has grown by 30%, with confirmed orders now exceeding €1 billion, signaling strong market confidence in the company’s direction. “We focus on making our customers’ operations more cost-effective from the development stage through to deployment,” said Fabian Schlegel, Senior Vice President, EMEA Region, ZF Commercial Vehicle Solutions. “Our strength lies in combining engineering expertise with a global presence. This has positioned us as a preferred partner in the commercial mobility space.”
ZF is introducing the latest generation of axles tailored for future bus and coach platforms. Among them is the A134 axle, which offers enhanced energy regeneration and weight optimization, all while maintaining compatibility with current vehicle architecture. Also featured is the AV134 portal axle, which delivers up to 20% more torque capacity and over 4% energy efficiency gains compared to its predecessor. Production is targeted to begin in 2027.
On the electrification front, ZF presents updated figures for its electric drive portfolio. The CeTrax 2 dual, a central electric motor system, achieves an impressive efficiency of at least 94.5%. Meanwhile, the AxTrax 2 LF electric axle offers up to 20% energy savings and supports versatile drivetrain layouts like 6×2 and 6×4, giving OEMs more flexibility in vehicle design.
ZF is also expanding its line-up of electrified auxiliary systems. Among the highlights is a new Air Supply Unit featuring an oil-free e-comp Scroll compressor, developed to reduce power consumption while improving performance and minimizing noise and vibration—key considerations in quieter electric vehicles.
ZF received the Digital Award at Busworld 2025 for its Braking and e-Drive Synergy Program, which integrates driveline and braking systems through advanced software. Built on ZF’s mBSP XBS braking platform and next-gen electric drives, the system enhances energy recovery while ensuring vehicle stability, resulting in lower fuel or energy usage and better long-term cost control. Another key launch is the Software Update Management System (SUMS) Suite, enabling manufacturers to securely update onboard software and meet international cybersecurity standards, such as UN/ECE R156.
ZF has strengthened its focus on road safety by expanding its portfolio of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), fully aligned with the requirements of the EU General Safety Regulation (GSR). These innovations are designed to enhance driver awareness, support accident prevention, and improve overall transportation safety across Europe.
Among the latest additions are the Advanced Driver Distraction Warning, a system that monitors driver behavior to identify signs of fatigue or inattention, and the Event Data Recorder, which securely captures and stores crash-related information to support accident analysis and future safety improvements. Together, these technologies mark another step in ZF’s mission to make mobility safer and smarter. These technologies are part of a broader ZF roadmap aimed at helping manufacturers and fleets comply with evolving safety regulations and enhance protection for both drivers and passengers.
ZF is a global supplier of advanced technologies for passenger vehicles, commercial fleets, and industrial applications. The company supports a wide range of mobility solutions, including electric drivetrains, safety systems, and automation tools aimed at reducing environmental impact and improving transportation efficiency. ZF also serves markets such as agriculture, construction, marine, rail, and renewable energy, reinforcing its role as a key enabler of next-generation mobility and sustainable infrastructure.
