ZF Friedrichshafen AG has successfully completed the acquisition of commercial vehicle technology supplier Wabco, having gained approval from all required regulatory authorities. Wabco's integration into ZF creates a customer-focused powerhouse to advance commercial vehicle technology. With the addition of Wabco, ZF’s focus will be on expanding its commercial vehicle service portfolio and on operating customer business.

"The combination of these two successful enterprises will bring a new dimension of innovation and capability for commercial vehicle systems technology. Thanks to our perfectly complementary portfolios and competencies, we are able to offer unprecedented solutions and services for manufacturers and fleets globally. In this way, we are actively shaping the future of the changing transportation industry,” said Wolf-Henning Scheider, CEO of ZF Friedrichshafen AG. In the future, Wabco will operate as an independent division, Commercial Vehicle Control Systems, within ZF Friedrichshafen AG and become the 10th division of the Germany-based technology company.

The new Commercial Vehicle Control Systems division employs around 12,000 people at 45 locations worldwide and will work closely with ZF’s existing Commercial Vehicle Technology division, ZF’s aftermarket division and the global development team. Jacques Esculier, Chairman and CEO of WABCO, has decided to retire from his role. Effective today, the division will be headed by newly appointed Fredrik Staedtler. Staedtler brings significant commercial vehicle experience, gained over the past decades working in the industry, most recently as head of ZF’s Commercial Vehicle Technology division.

Systems provider for the CV market
With Wabco in its stable, ZF's extensive combined product portfolio now encompasses conventional and electric drive and chassis components, a comprehensive suite of sensors as well as fully integrated, advanced braking, steering and driver assistance systems for OEMs seeking technological differentiation for their new vehicle platforms. Additionally, ZF can offer digital fleet management solutions and an extensive global network of aftermarket services for commercial vehicles.

ZF says it is fully prepared to meet the diverse requirements of a commercial vehicle sector that is increasingly driven by digitalisation: advancing road traffic safety, improving vehicle efficiency and lowering emissions, while delivering reduced total operating costs (TCO).