ZF Group Unveils ZF LIFETEC: New Chapter for its Passive Safety Systems

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ZF LIFETEC is the new brand of the carved-out ZF Passive Safety Systems division (Image: ZF Group)

In a strategic move marking a significant milestone in its ongoing carve-out process, ZF Group has introduced a new identity for its Passive Safety Systems division, now known as “ZF LIFETEC.” This rebranding reflects the division’s evolution and ambition for independent growth and enhanced profitability. In 2023, the division reported impressive sales figures of approximately €4.7 billion, signifying its position as a critical player in the passive safety market.

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Dr Holger Klein, CEO of ZF Group (Image: ZF Group)

Dr. Holger Klein, CEO of ZF Group, emphasized the division’s remarkable growth and the opportunities that the new ZF LIFETEC brand will bring. “The transformation into ZF LIFETEC empowers us with the strategic freedom to boost our sales and profitability. We are on track with the carve-out process and are looking into additional ways to expand ZF LIFETEC’s capabilities in the future,” he stated.

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Rudolf Stark, Head of ZF Passive Safety Systems, which will be rebranded as ZF LIFETEC. (Image: ZF Group)

Dr. Martin Fischer, a Board Member of ZF Group responsible for the Passive Safety Systems division, remarked on the significance of the rebranding: “Introducing ZF LIFETEC serves as a clear declaration of our division’s autonomous goals and identity, both within our team and to the world.”

Rudolf Stark, who leads ZF Passive Safety Systems, commented on the vision behind ZF LIFETEC: “Our mission to save lives is now intertwined with our innovative technology under the ZF LIFETEC brand. We’re set to pursue growth, propelled by automotive megatrends and the global demand for higher safety standards. ZF LIFETEC represents our commitment to ensuring exceptional safety for all vehicle occupants.”

Initiated in October 2022, the carve-out of the Passive Safety Systems division aims to provide ZF LIFETEC with more strategic flexibility and avenues for growth. As it embarks on its journey towards becoming a standalone entity, ZF LIFETEC is poised to capitalize on its strong market presence amidst evolving automotive industry dynamics.

With operations spanning 46 locations in 18 countries and holding over 20 percent of the global market share in its core product categories, ZF LIFETEC is a dominant force in the passive safety sector. Its extensive product range, including inflatable restraints, steering wheel, and seat belt systems, caters to a broad spectrum of vehicles. ZF LIFETEC’s success is bolstered by deep-rooted partnerships with global OEMs, a commitment to quality, and collaborative R&D efforts, positioning it for continued growth and innovation in the safety technology domain.