At the 2024 Hannover International Commercial Vehicles Show on 16 September, Foton Motor signed a strategic cooperation agreement with German automotive technology giant ZF Group. The partnership aims to introduce cutting-edge commercial vehicle hybrid drive systems into the Chinese market, supporting the country’s transition towards new energy solutions.
The agreement was signed in the presence of senior leaders from both companies, including Chang Rui, Chairman of Foton Motor, Lu Zhenghua, Executive Vice President of Foton Motor, Peter Laier, Member of the ZF Group Management Board and Head of ZF Commercial Vehicle Solutions, and Yu Sujie, President of ZF Commercial Vehicle Solutions in the Asia-Pacific region.
Building on their existing collaboration in the TraXon automatic transmission and electric drive systems, the companies have committed to expanding their efforts through their joint venture, ZF Foton Automatic Transmission (Jiaxing) Co., Ltd. This partnership will see the production and manufacturing of advanced hybrid technologies, supported by ZF’s technology license in China.
The heart of the new partnership lies in the ZF TraXon 2 Hybrid system, which builds on the integrated design and success of the original TraXon transmission. While maintaining the performance strengths of internal combustion engines, the TraXon 2 Hybrid is designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Its introduction is expected to provide significant economic benefits for logistics companies and fleet operators.
With mass production targeted for 2026, this innovative hybrid system is poised to be the first of its kind to enter the Chinese market, marking a major step forward in the country’s commercial vehicle sector.
Bringing Hybrid Technology to a Global Stage
Peter Laier of ZF Group welcomed the partnership as a significant opportunity for both companies. “The cooperation between ZF and Foton Motor leverages the strengths and resources of both companies, accelerating the development of our hybrid solutions. This will help us bring them to market more quickly and efficiently, not only in China but globally,” he said.
Foton Motor’s Chairman, Chang Rui, emphasised the importance of the deal in aligning with global trends in new energy vehicles. “Foton Motor has always pursued a green, low-carbon approach to vehicle development. The hybrid system is a crucial part of our strategy to contribute to the global commercial vehicle industry’s new energy transformation. This agreement represents a new phase of cooperation in both new energy and globalisation for Foton and ZF.”
As the automotive industry continues its shift towards sustainable energy, Foton Motor has been actively exploring three key technological avenues: pure electric, hybrid, and fuel cell. By developing these new energy solutions, the company aims to secure its leadership in the industry.
Hybrid Solutions for Heavy-Duty Commercial Vehicles
The introduction of ZF’s latest TraXon 2 Hybrid system will enable Foton Motor to diversify its hybrid product lineup, allowing it to address a broader range of customer needs. The collaboration also strengthens Foton’s position in the competitive heavy-duty commercial vehicle market, where hybrid solutions are increasingly in demand.
In this partnership, Foton Motor seeks to harness the advanced technology offered by ZF Group to drive the hybrid transformation of its commercial vehicle segment. With its eye on the future, Foton is committed to leading the way in hybrid innovation and reinforcing its role as a major player in the global commercial vehicle industry.
As China intensifies efforts towards sustainable energy, this partnership between Foton Motor and ZF Group signifies a pivotal moment in the country’s journey towards cleaner and more efficient commercial transport.