Video: ZF Group Plans to Scale Its India Business by 3X

ZF Group India is targeting 2–3x overall growth in the coming years as it expands local manufacturing, strengthens its R&D capabilities and increases its focus on exports, according to ZF Group India President Akash Passey.

India is emerging as a key growth engine for ZF as the company broadens its role from a component supplier to a mobility integrator, with operations spanning passenger cars, commercial vehicles, industrial technology and renewable energy.

ZF's Manufacturing 4.0 and R&D Push in India

Passey said ZF is focusing on expanding local manufacturing while strengthening its R&D and testing capabilities in India. The company is also looking to scale the adoption of Manufacturing 4.0 technologies as it increases production and develops capabilities for both domestic and global markets.

ZF Targets 4-5X Local Sourcing and Export Growth

As part of its growth strategy, ZF is targeting a 4–5x increase in local sourcing. The company is also looking to expand its export footprint from India, with free trade agreements (FTAs) expected to play a role in improving the competitiveness of locally manufactured products in global markets.

Supply chain resilience remains another focus area as ZF seeks to address challenges related to sourcing and global disruptions. Increasing localisation is expected to help the company strengthen its supply base while supporting its manufacturing and export ambitions.

ZF's Push into Sustainability and Software-Defined Vehicles

ZF is also expanding its focus beyond conventional automotive applications, with safety and sustainability among its key areas. The company has interests in wind energy and is also preparing for emerging automotive technologies such as software-defined vehicles (SDVs).

Passey said ZF’s strategy in India is centred on integrating its capabilities across different mobility segments while using the country’s manufacturing and engineering base to support both domestic growth and its global operations.