HARMAN International, a global leader in automotive technology and lifestyle audio and a wholly owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co, Ltd, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) business of ZF Group for an enterprise value of €1.5 billion. The acquisition includes ZF’s portfolio of automotive compute platforms, smart cameras, radar systems, and ADAS software capabilities. The transaction supports HARMAN’s strategy of delivering consumer-grade digital experiences that meet stringent automotive safety, reliability, and lifecycle requirements, as the industry accelerates toward software-defined vehicles (SDVs).
By integrating ZF’s ADAS technologies with HARMAN’s Digital Cockpit solutions on a centralized computing architecture, the combined platform is expected to enable more cohesive vehicle systems where assisted driving, safety, connectivity, and in-cabin experiences operate seamlessly. This unified approach reduces system complexity, shortens development cycles, and allows automakers to deploy scalable and differentiated vehicle experiences.
Christian Sobottka, CEO and President, Automotive Division, HARMAN, said the acquisition addresses the industry’s growing need for tightly integrated safety and intelligence systems built on shared computing platforms. He added that the combination of ADAS perception capabilities with HARMAN’s expertise in in-vehicle experiences opens the door to new cross-domain innovations.
Mathias Miedreich, CEO of ZF Group, said the agreement provides an optimal long-term platform for the ADAS business while enabling ZF to sharpen its focus on core mobility technologies and strengthen its financial position.
Young Sohn, Chairman of the Board of Directors, HARMAN, and Senior Advisor, Samsung Electronics, noted that the acquisition builds on Samsung’s track record of strategic investments and reinforces HARMAN’s role in shaping the future of connected and intelligent mobility.
Approximately 3,750 ZF employees across Europe, the Americas, and Asia are expected to transition to HARMAN upon completion. The transaction is anticipated to close in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. Following the close, HARMAN will incorporate ZF’s ADAS assets into its centralized compute roadmap while continuing support for existing customer programs.
HARMAN designs and delivers intelligent audio and automotive technologies used in over 50 million vehicles worldwide. Home to brands such as JBL, Harman Kardon, AKG, Bowers & Wilkins, Denon, and Marantz, the company employs approximately 26,000 people globally.
ZF is a global mobility technology company serving passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, and industrial markets. With operations in 30 countries and revenues of €41.4 billion in FY2024, ZF focuses on electrification, safety, and sustainable mobility solutions.
