Ford & ZF: Trailblazing Truck Electrification

Ford Trucks has commissioned ZF to supply the electric drives for its latest generation of electrified trucks. 

The first product to be provided?

ZF's central electric drive, the CeTrax 2 dual, designed for heavy-duty trucks and built to be packaged within the transmission space of an ICE vehicle.

This gives manufacturers the flexibility to install either a combustion drivetrain or a CeTrax 2 electric central drive on the same production line, depending on the customer’s configuration.

ZF is also going to supply Ford Trucks with its Electrically Powered Hydraulic Steering Pump (EPHS) which provides hydraulic power steering pressure on-demand.

This e-mobility technology partnership underscores ZF's status as Europe's leading producer of electric drives, supporting Ford's EV transition with its state-of-the-art zero emissions solutions.

Ford & ZF: EV innovators

Ford and ZF are committed innovators when it comes to EV technology, with both companies investing heavily in products and research. 

Ford has expanded its EV lineup with the F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E, cementing its status as a sustainable automotive leader. 

Meanwhile ZF, a global leader in driveline and chassis technology, has continued to provide and improve crucial components like electric drivetrains, power electronics, and control systems.

ZF’s innovative solutions, including its electric axle drives, help Ford enhance the efficiency and performance of their EVs, contributing to a more sustainable future in transportation.

This successful partnership exemplifies the automotive industry's shift towards electrification.

Emrah Duman, Ford Trucks Vice President certainly agrees. 

"Beyond innovative processes, product readiness and competitiveness, a trusted relationship and the highest quality standards are essential for us," he says. 

"Additionally, a well-defined sustainability roadmap is key for our selected suppliers supporting us in our mission to develop best-in-class commercial vehicles that enable sustainable transport solutions.

"And we are glad that a long-established brand like ZF is one of them.

"Ford Trucks has always been at the forefront of innovation in the heavy commercial vehicle industry, and this new agreement with ZF further solidifies its mission to lead the shift towards sustainable transport.”

Supply critical electric drives 

ZF's updated CeTrax 2 dual electric central drive builds on its previous iteration, and is set to make its world premiere at IAA Transportation 2024.

Under the agreement, Ford will not only get access to these drives for its heavy duty electric rigid truck but also to supply further electric drive variants as upcoming models enter production.

A flexible and powerful solution, ZF's drive will enable automotive manufacturers like Ford to more effectively manage the transition towards e- mobility production.

This will be especially prominent during the initial ramp up phase when volumes are relatively small compared to traditional ICE lines.

Overall, ZF and Ford's ongoing partnership is a testament to the growing success and innovation happening in the EV space, where automation continues to be redefined. 

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