ZF introduces complete e-drive system for passenger, commercial vehicles

The ZF Group said its new e-drive system architecture that is more compact, offers greater energy density and is easily adaptable will appeal to manufacturers introducing new battery electric vehicles when it is ready for production in 2025. In late 2022, the company showed key details of the new modular-concept system that can be configured to run at 400V or 800V. Executives speaking to global media in a virtual workshop said the customization-friendly system that includes matched motor, inverter, gearbox and software would offer shorter development times for OEMs.

“ZF is positioned very well to meet both current and future challenges,” said Markus Schwabe, product line manager of electric systems. ZF, traditionally a transmission powerhouse, has been making increasing investments in electrification and in 2019 began supplying the entire electric propulsion system for the Mercedes EQS SUV. For the new system, engineers focused on improvements in four metrics: cost, EV range, torque and power density.