ZF Group, NIO form strategic cooperation on steer-by-wire product

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- ZF Group inked an agreement with NIO on Oct. 11 to carry out strategic cooperation in the development of steer-by-wire (SBW) products and other fields, the global auto supplier announced via its WeChat account.

Under the agreement, the two companies will establish an instant information sharing mechanism to step up communication and conduct regular technical exchanges, in a bid to jointly hammer out industry-leading processes and quality standards. 

In addition, the newly-formed collaboration will also involve brand promotion, product marketing, technology and quality enhancements, as well as customer service.

Photo credit: ZF Group

The latest agreement signing indicates the first time for ZF Group to team up with an OEM in the SBW business in the Asia Pacific region, and it also marks both parties' shared commitment to boosting the evolution and development of autonomous driving, electrification, and other industries.

Since its entry into the Chinese market in 1981, ZF Group has deployed nearly 50 manufacturing enterprises, 4 R&D centers, and nearly 240 after-sale service outlets across the country. In spring this year, the group broke ground on the R&D hub in Guangzhou, its fourth R&D center in China. In early July, ZF Group inked a deal with local authorities in Shandong province to build a plant in Rizhao city with a total of €60 million to be poured. Last month, the group saw its 800-volt electric drive axles roll off the production line at the plant in Xiaoshan district, Hangzhou city.