AI Innovations at ZF Friedrichshafen: Transforming Automotive Development

ZF Friedrichshafen, a global leader in automotive technology, is harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize its development processes. The company's strategic use of AI is not limited to specific products, but extends across its entire portfolio, optimizing efficiency and speeding up development cycles. This approach plays a pivotal role in the company's growth and innovation in the automotive industry.

AI has long been a crucial component in the automotive sector, particularly in highly automated and assisted driving technologies. At ZF, AI is strategically important as it enables the redesign and optimization of products and processes. According to Torsten Gollewski, Executive Vice President Corporate R&D Innovation & Technology at ZF, AI not only enhances software for driving and assistance functions but also aids in the development of products made from materials like copper and steel.

Central to ZF's AI advancements is the AI Tech Center in Friedrichshafen. This facility is integral to implementing AI across various development stages, from requirements analysis to logistics optimization. As noted by Dr. Manuel Götz, head of the AI Tech Center, systematic analysis of customer requirements using AI significantly reduces development time, enabling engineers to access and utilize existing tools and specifications efficiently.

ZF collaborates with partners like Infineon Technologies to further enhance AI applications. The joint EEmotion project exemplifies this partnership, where AI algorithms are integrated into safety-critical vehicle control systems, offering more precise trajectory control and improved driving performance.