ZF Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) division has introduced the SUMS Service Suite, a comprehensive set of tools designed to assist trailer manufacturers in meeting international automotive software update regulations. As vehicles integrate more advanced electronics, the United Nations implemented Regulation R156, requiring manufacturers to adopt a Software Update Management System (SUMS) to ensure vehicle safety and cybersecurity throughout its life cycle. ZF’s SUMS Service Suite supports trailer manufacturers in meeting these standards, offering a robust solution for secure and efficient software management.
“With the launch of our SUMS Service Suite, we’re offering more than just compliance support — we’re providing trailer manufacturers with a secure, future-proof system for managing software updates,” says Dr Peter Bruns, Trailer Launch Application Engineer and SUMS Expert at ZF. “Based on decades of expertise, our modular SUMS Suite places the vehicle at the core and lets manufacturers select products and services to meet their specific needs, simplifying compliance with UN/ECE R156.”
ZF’s SUMS suite comprises five key components that help trailer manufacturers manage and document the entire software update process while meeting the stringent requirements of the UN/ECE R156 regulation. The suite provides a comprehensive framework designed to support manufacturers in meeting UN/ECE R156 requirements, beginning with the SCALAR SUMS SaaS platform. This ISO 24089-certified platform enables tracking, recording, and verification of software and hardware versions across all R156-relevant components. By ensuring cybersecurity compliance, enabling consistent audits, and documenting the regulatory implications of software updates, the platform plays a critical role in streamlining approval processes.
To complement the platform, manufacturers have access to dedicated consulting services aimed at simplifying the complex regulatory environment. These services provide expert guidance to help organizations implement effective compliance strategies, mitigate risks, and ensure alignment with international standards, ultimately reducing the burden of navigating evolving regulatory frameworks.
Supporting documentation tools are also included in the suite. These resources feature a detailed handbook, along with structured templates and checklists, all designed to make certification requirements easier to interpret and implement. These tools provide clarity and consistency, improving the efficiency of documentation and audit preparation for regulatory bodies.
The suite further strengthens compliance capabilities with targeted training programs for OEMs and suppliers. These programs are specifically designed around UN/ECE R156 mandates and are available through the SCALAR SUMS platform. By equipping users with in-depth knowledge and practical skills, the training ensures teams can effectively operate within the system and respond to regulatory expectations.
Rounding out the suite is a selection of SUMS-ready trailer technologies that integrate seamlessly with the platform. This includes advanced electronic braking systems like TEBS-E7 and iEBS, the OptiTire TPMS for tire pressure monitoring, and the SmartBoard control panel. These components are fully compatible with SCALAR SUMS, allowing for a streamlined and cohesive approach to vehicle system monitoring and compliance.
ZF CVS has become the first tier-1 supplier to the commercial vehicle industry to earn ISO 24089 certification, underscoring its expertise in automotive software update solutions. “This certification ensures that the solutions within the SUMS Service Suite are fully aligned with UN/ECE R156 requirements,” says Dr Peter Bruns. “It sets a new standard in the industry, giving customers confidence as they navigate complex compliance requirements.”
The certification currently covers ZF’s SCALAR SUMS Software as a Service platform and several ZF CVS trailer products. ZF’s unified engineering standards across its CVS division also lay the foundation for future certifications of additional trailer, truck, and bus solutions.
