ZF bus business grows 30% in 3 years, orders exceed €1BN. New axle generation (and more) at Busworld

At Busworld Europe 2025 in Brussels, ZF is presenting its latest advancements in bus and coach technologies, focusing on efficiency, safety, and sustainability. The company highlighted a broad portfolio of decarbonization, automation, intelligent chassis, safety, and digital solutions, all aimed at reducing Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) while enhancing operational performance.

“Our bus business has grown by 30 percent over the last three years, and we now have more than one billion euros in orders in the pipeline. That’s a clear signal we’re delivering what the market needs,” said Fabian Schlegel, Senior Vice President and Head of EMEA Region, ZF Commercial Vehicle Solutions Division. “Engineering efficiency, reliability, safety and sustainability into every product and system is the key to unlocking long-term value. This approach is fueling strong growth, as our bus technology business is expanding faster than the overall market, strengthening our position as a leading partner for the industry worldwide.”

ZF keeps Division E within group

A few days ago, ZF reached an agreement with employee representatives to restructure its Electrified Powertrain Technology division (Division E), ensuring it remains part of the Group while strengthening competitiveness. The plan includes a 7% reduction in working hours, company contributions, and collective measures to achieve more than €500 million in cost savings by 2027, with 7,600 job cuts expected by 2030.

Development will focus on strategic products such as the TherMaS thermal management system and the 8HP evo plug-in hybrid transmission, while programs like on-board chargers and DC converters will be discontinued. The company will support affected employees with voluntary programs, training, and transfer measures. Mathias Miedreich, CEO of ZF, said the agreement sets a clear course to enhance long-term competitiveness and technological leadership.

New generation ZF axles at Busworld Europe 2025

Back to Busworld, ZF premiered its new generation of axles, including the A134 and AV134 portal axles, designed for next-generation buses and coaches. The AV134 delivers up to 20% higher torque capacity and enables more than 4% lower energy consumption compared to previous models, while the central electric drive CeTrax 2 dual achieves certified efficiency of at least 94.5%, the company states.

ZF also presented the AxTrax 2 LF electric portal axle capable of supporting 6×2 and 6×4 configurations, offering OEMs greater design flexibility. Additional innovations included an oil-free e-comp Scroll Air Supply Unit, reducing NVH and supporting operational efficiency in electric buses.

ZF’s focus on software and integration was underscored with the launch of its Software Update Management System (SUMS) Suite, helping OEMs meet regulatory requirements for secure updates and cybersecurity in line with UN/ECE R156. Safety advances were also highlighted, with two new solutions complying with the General Safety Regulation: the Advanced Driver Distraction Warning, monitoring driver behavior for fatigue or unsafe actions, and the Event Data Recorder, providing vital crash-related vehicle data.

Award-winning innovation was recognized at the show with the Digital Award for ZF’s Braking and e-Drive Synergy Program, which synchronizes the driveline and braking systems to maximize energy efficiency while maintaining full stability control, reducing operating costs and TCO.