Brussels, October 2025 - Global technology leader ZF Group is showcasing a comprehensive suite of innovative bus and coach solutions at Busworld Brussels 2025, emphasizing total cost of ownership (TCO), electrification and digitalization, with a strong focus on supporting the Chinese market's unique needs and global ambitions. As a global supplier, ZF is well-positioned to understand and respond to the diverse regional and regulatory requirements across markets, offering solutions that align with both regional and international demands.

ZF booth @ Busworld

In a press conference and subsequent interviews, Fabian Schlegel, SVP of EMEA Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) and Daniel Majewski, Head of Bus Solutions (Global) CVS, detailed how the company's global scale and dedicated bus segment expertise are driving the industry's transformation.

Efficiency Through Technology Transfer and Integration

ZF’s Bus Business is growing at a pace four times faster than global bus production, with its CVS bus segment expanding by 30%, significantly outpacing the overall market. This surge is driven by the rising demand in key regions such as China, India and South America.

The bus and coach segment, while vital, represents a small part of the overall vehicle market. Therefore, a key theme from ZF is the strategic leveraging of technology across its divisions. Fabian Schlegel explained, "Our advantage is the ability to adapt high-volume passenger car technologies—like e-motors, inverters, and radar systems—for commercial vehicles. This allows us to deliver automotive quality and innovation at speed while managing costs effectively."

Fabian Schlegel, SVP of EMEA Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS)

This approach is evident in products like the three-speed CeTrax 2 dual central electric drive for bus and coach, which is based on ZF’s extensive know-how for trucks, and boasts an efficiency of at least 94.5%. The AxTrax 2 LF low-floor electric axle, which was specifically designed for city buses also shares many components with the AxTrax 2, which can be used for truck, bus and coach. It delivers an average of 20% energy savings compared to its predecessor. Daniel highlighted that these systems are designed for seamless integration, reducing complexity for manufacturers and optimizing TCO for operators.

ZF also leverages proven passenger car ADAS technologies to meet commercial vehicle standards, ensuring full compliance with upcoming related GSR regulations. At Busworld, ZF introduced new solutions like a Driver Monitoring System and an Event Data Recorder, as well as the latest AEB system OnGuardMAX with new functions for the bus segment.

Besides cross leveraging of technologies, ZF also benefits from using full system-wide solutions to develop further operating synergies that unlock more customer value. For example, its Brake and e-Drive Synergy Program, which won the Busworld 2025 Digital Award, represents how two ZF systems – the e-Drive and mBSP XBS braking system can work together to optimize energy recuperation while maintaining vehicle stability under deceleration.

A One-Stop-Shop Powerhouse with Deep Local Roots in China

ZF emphasized its role as a comprehensive partner for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), particularly in China. Daniel Majeweski stated, "We empower customers globally through strategic focus and technological leadership. Our dedicated global bus and coach organization ensures close customer proximity. We maintain daily communication to understand market trends and jointly develop solutions."

Daniel Majewski, Head of Bus Solutions (Global) CVS

This collaboration is deeply rooted in China through extensive localization. Most of ZF's bus-related products, including axles, transmissions, braking, suspension systems and ADAS, are manufactured locally. E-mobility products are next in line for localization, ensuring agile delivery and cost efficiency for Chinese customers.

"Customer’s feedback has directly shaped our offerings for China," added Ouyang Guangfan, Head of Bus Solutions for CVS APAC. "For instance, we developed the EBS 3.3 system specifically for the safety demands of Chinese eBuses, and we localized the bus version of TraXon 2 transmission at our Jiaxing plant to perfectly balance quality, delivery and cost."

Ouyang Guangfan, Head of Bus Solutions for CVS APAC

As Chinese bus manufacturers expand internationally, ZF's global network in production and service also actively supports the "going-global" strategy of Chinese customers, enabling full support across the entire vehicle lifecycle. With a focus on maximizing uptime, reliability and TCO, ZF helps customers succeed in global markets with confidence and efficiency.

World Premieres and a Digital Future

The event featured several world premieres, including a new generation of robust axles designed for next-generation vehicle platforms and an electrified Air Supply Unit, which reduces noise and maintenance. The Air Supply Unit incorporates the e-comp Scroll air compressor which won the Innovation Award at Busworld.

On the digital front, ZF is pushing the boundaries of intelligence and connectivity. Its full ADAS suite meets and exceeds upcoming regulatory requirements, while the Bus Connect telematics platform enables predictive maintenance and fleet management. The company's Software Update Management System (SUMS) Service Suite ensures bus and coach OEMs meet the latest regulatory requirements for safe and secure vehicle software updates.

A Multi-Pathway Strategy for Sustainable Mobility

Looking to the future, ZF is committed to a technology-agnostic approach to decarbonization. While ZF has prepared an e-mobility kit for battery-electric systems that are ideal for city buses, ZF is also advancing hybrid solutions like the TraXon 2 Hybrid for coaches and long-distance travel, demonstrating its commitment to providing the right solution for every operational need.

With its proven technology portfolio, integrated system approach and unwavering customer focus—especially in the dynamic Chinese market—ZF is solidifying its position as a driving force behind the future of safe, smart and sustainable bus and coach transportation.

Source : www.chinabuses.org

Editor : Olivia

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