Driving Commercial Vehicle Innovation

Commercial vehicles operate in highly diverse environments – from high-speed highways and dense urban traffic to low-speed yard operations with pedestrians, forklifts, and trailers. Blind spots, limited visibility, and complex maneuvers remain major causes of accidents, including those involving vulnerable road users. By definition, trucks and trailers are separate vehicle units that need to be connected for surround sensing.

ZF combines state-of-the-art sensing and perception into a unified 360° object detection system across truck and trailer. Enabled by high-speed connectivity, truck and trailer function as one integrated system – from highway driving to precise yard maneuvers. Safety technology is evolving from warning – only systems to active intervention, enabling omni-directional collision avoidance in real-world operations.

Heavy-duty transport must cut CO₂ and emissions while maintaining range, performance and operational flexibility. Full electrification is not always feasible due to cost, infrastructure and duty-cycle constraints, especially over the next decade. OEMs and fleets need a scalable, economical transition technology that fits existing platforms and diverse applications.

TraXon 2 Hybrid demonstrates that hybrid powertrains are a viable bridge for heavy-duty vehicles. The transmission concept connects conventional and electric drivetrains, preserving performance, range and total cost of ownership. Designed for full-hybrid and plug-in hybrid architectures, it enables electric driving, supports Euro 7 compliance through optimized engine operation and recuperation, and helps OEMs and fleets electrify with lower complexity and clear operational value.

City buses operate under constant pressure in dense urban traffic with vulnerable road users, frequent stops and rising accessibility demands. Bus stop approaches are especially complex, combining safety critical maneuvers, passenger interaction and tight schedules, while drivers must maintain full control and comfort for standing passengers. As compressed air remains essential, noise from auxiliaries such as compressors remains a challenge as well.

ZF supports the driver during everyday operations with software-integrated systems, without changing the basic vehicle architecture. CDC Skyhook improves ride comfort and stability, whereas City Bus CMS combines state-of-the-art detection and braking assistance to mitigate collisions or prevent them altogether. At bus stops, City Bus Assist helps drivers through curb detection and steering assistance. Its intelligent kneeling behavior enhances accessibility and overall safety. ZF’s electric air compressor e-comp Scroll operates at a low noise level and supports quiet and comfortable operation in stop-and-go urban traffic.