ZF Friedrichshafen AG and the BMW Group have entered into a long-term supply agreement covering passenger car drive systems, with the continued supply and further development of ZF’s 8-speed automatic transmission (8HP) at the centre of the partnership. The multi-year contract, valued at several billion euros, will run through the late 2030s and is expected to support both companies in advancing open-technology and low-emission mobility solutions.
Mathias Miedreich, CEO of ZF, said the agreement underscores a shared focus on innovation, efficiency and sustainable mobility at a time when the automotive industry is undergoing rapid transformation. He added that the contract reinforces the strategic role of the 8HP transmission as a key technology supporting the evolution of modern drive systems.
As part of the agreement, the 8HP transmission kit will be continually refined to meet the performance and efficiency demands of future powertrain concepts. The objective is to offer customers a high-performing and highly efficient transmission solution aligned with next-generation mobility requirements.
Sebastian Schmitt, Head of ZF’s Electrified Drive Technologies division, said the partnership reflects the value of long-term planning in accelerating technological development. He noted that the agreement creates stability and clarity for both sides, enabling ZF to align the next phase of the 8HP platform with efficiency gains, performance enhancements and long-term relevance.
With this contract, ZF strengthens its position as a key system supplier while improving long-term planning visibility. The two companies are expected to continue close cooperation to manage risks in a fast-changing market environment and support the development of lower-emission mobility solutions.
ZF is a global technology company supplying mobility systems and advanced products for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and industrial applications. Its product portfolio serves vehicle manufacturers, mobility providers and start-ups across transportation and mobility. ZF supports the electrification of multiple vehicle categories and contributes to emission reduction, climate protection and safer mobility. Beyond passenger cars and commercial vehicles, the company also operates in sectors such as construction and agricultural machinery, wind power, marine propulsion, rail drive systems and test technology.
