German automotive supplier ZF has recently initiated the construction of its groundbreaking “New Energy Vehicle eDrive Project” in Shenyang, located in the northeastern Chinese province of Liaoning. The production line at this facility will predominantly focus on the manufacturing of axle drives.
The newly established plant will produce a range of products based on ZF’s modular electric driveline platform, encompassing both front and rear axle drives. These offerings will incorporate motors, power electronics, and reduction gears.
By adopting a modular design approach, the plant will have the capability to address power requirements spanning from 100 kW to 300 kW. Additionally, the facility will provide the flexibility to switch between synchronous and asynchronous motors for main and auxiliary drives, depending on the specific needs of customers. The motor design features a hairpin winding, enhancing power and torque density, efficiency, and optimizing power output.
Renee Wang, Executive Vice President and President of ZF China and Operation Asia Pacific, emphasized the company’s commitment to localizing its operations in response to the rapid pace and efficiency of the Chinese market. Wang stated, “To adapt to the ‘China speed’ and ‘Chinese efficiency,’ we are advancing our localization strategy, including the management team, core R&D capabilities, as well as the entire supply chain. By developing local competencies and leveraging local resources, we will achieve localization of advanced electric axle drive technologies.”
Highlighting ZF’s expertise in research and development, resource allocation, project execution, and system supply capabilities, the head of ZF China affirmed the significance of the Shenyang project. This venture showcases ZF’s strong capabilities in the domain of new energy vehicle research and development.
This upcoming facility in Shenyang represents ZF’s third EV component plant in China since 2021. The automotive supplier has allocated over one billion yuan (approximately 130 million euros) for investment in this new manufacturing facility. The plant is slated to commence operations in March 2025.
ZF’s Electrified Driveline Technology division, which develops and manufactures electric axle drives and components, has garnered an impressive order backlog of 30 billion euros worldwide. The company’s cutting-edge solutions cater to leading automakers in both the passenger car and commercial vehicle sectors.
With the construction of the “New Energy Vehicle eDrive Project” in Shenyang, ZF strengthens its presence in the Chinese market and reinforces its commitment to advancing electric mobility solutions on a global scale.
