ZF Aftermarket Play

History, as Akash Passey, President of ZF Group India and Head of the Commercial Vehicle Solutions Division for the region, points out, has an uncanny way of shaping the future.

- By Ashish Bhatia

For ZF, that history is steeped in landmark acquisitions, bold technology pivots, and relentless market expansion. Among these, the acquisition of TRW stands out, not only as a milestone in the company's consolidation journey but also as a strategic leap that broadened its capabilities in active and passive safety systems, aligning with the global mega trends of automation and electrification. "History has laid the foundation for the future," remarks Passey. That foundation is more than a century strong, and in India, it's being actively reinforced through investments, expansions, and technology localisation.

AN EXPANDING INDUSTRIAL FOOTPRINT

ZF today operates as a multi-segment technology leader, not just in passenger cars and Commercial Vehicles (CVs) but also in wind power, industrial applications, and off-highway segments. Its growing Indian footprint mirrors this diversification. The commissioning of its 19th plant in Tamil Nadu is a testament to ZF’s confidence in the Indian manufacturing ecosystem. This facility joins a network of plants and technical centres that together make India ZF’s largest hub for software development, enabling global programs in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), connectivity, and driveline innovations. Passey’s description of ZF as being “future-ready for India” extends beyond its OEM partnerships. It’s a commitment that spans SUVs, e-mobility solutions across all vehicle segments, and the integration of initiatives that service customers throughout the product life cycle.

AFTERMARKET