Commercial Vehicle Solutions
zf.com
Business of Trucking Article Business of Trucking Article

Business and the Trucking Transformation

ZF's strategic commitments, innovations, and unwavering partnership in a new era.

Min Reading Time
The mobility industry is in the midst of monumental transformation, with new technologies and advanced propulsion systems revolutionizing vehicles and pushing the boundaries of automation.
As we navigate this groundbreaking era, collaboration and partnerships between fleets and suppliers are crucial, as we carefully consider the balance between the demands of today and the implications for tomorrow. At ZF, we recognize the need to make strategic commitments today to gain the forward-looking understanding of tomorrow necessary to lead next generation mobility. This requires courage and investment to drive innovation and shape the future of transportation.

Striking a balance between short-term gains and long-term strategy

Striking a balance between short-term gains and long-term strategy

While focusing on the future, it is essential for companies to remain attentive to the business fundamentals of today. Successfully optimizing near-term operational levers is vital for generating profitability and funding the evolving technologies of tomorrow, ensuring the position as a trusted partner in the interconnected value chain.
To thrive in this transformative decade, companies must have a dual focus on both the present and the future. Neglecting either aspect can hinder success. ZF, like any other company, faces near-term challenges such as inflation uncertainty, fluctuating vehicle forecasts, and the competition for talent. We carefully assess the value of our current product portfolio while preparing for future customer and market demands. This requires making tough decisions that balance short-term gains with long-term strategic positioning.
Author: Shaun Twomey, Director of Americas Strategy and Market & Sales, ZF Commercial Vehicle Solutions

Despite the challenges, we maintain an optimistic and courageous outlook for the long term. Through significant investments into the production of silicon carbide semiconductors within North America and Europe via our partnership with industry leader, Wolfspeed, we are actively driving innovation and supporting our cutting-edge powertrain solutions to support the industry's transition to electrification.
Simultaneously, we remain committed to meeting the needs of the present market. Our substantial investment in the production of ZF's 8-speed PowerLine automatic transmission in Gray Court, SC, demonstrates our continued dedication to delivering high-quality products to support conventional ICE vehicle architectures.
"To thrive in this transformative decade, companies must have a dual focus on both the present and the future. Neglecting either aspect can hinder success."
Shaun Twomey, Director of Americas Strategy and Market & Sales
In 2023, Wolfspeed and ZF announced partnership for future Silicon Carbide Semiconductor devices.

Committed to leading the way in shaping the future of transportation

Committed to leading the way in shaping the future of transportation

In conclusion, the ability to strike a delicate balance between near-term operational pressures and long-term strategic implications is paramount for companies to navigate the unpredictable waves of this transformative decade. As a valued partner to OEMs and fleets, ZF is ready to lead the way, leveraging our unparalleled technology portfolio, extensive expertise, and unwavering commitment to our partners' success. Together, we can embark on this remarkable journey of automotive transformation and shape the future of transportation.

RELATED NEWS

PowerLine Production Begins Fall 2023

ZF announced the PowerLine 8-speed automatic transmission production line has been installed and testing is underway. The new production line is part of the $200 million investment in the ZF Transmissions Gray Court (South Carolina) manufacturing facility and will meet all USMCA requirements.
Technology

PowerLine Production Begins Fall 2023

ZF announced the PowerLine 8-speed automatic transmission production line has been installed and testing is underway. The new production line is part of the $200 million investment in the ZF Transmissions Gray Court (South Carolina) manufacturing facility and will meet all USMCA requirements.

ZF and Wolfspeed Plan Joint Venture to Accelerate Silicon Carbide Innovation

Wolfspeed, Inc, the global leader in Silicon Carbide technology and ZF, a global technology company enabling next generation mobility, today announced a strategic partnership that includes the creation of a joint innovation lab to drive advances in Silicon Carbide systems and devices for mobility, industrial and energy applications.
Research & Development
#Emobility

ZF and Wolfspeed Plan Joint Venture to Accelerate Silicon Carbide Innovation

Wolfspeed, Inc, the global leader in Silicon Carbide technology and ZF, a global technology company enabling next generation mobility, today announced a strategic partnership that includes the creation of a joint innovation lab to drive advances in Silicon Carbide systems and devices for mobility, industrial and energy applications.