Strategic partnership forged

German automotive suppliers ZF Friedrichshafen AG (ZF) and Hella KGaA Hueck & Co (Hella) have announced a strategic partnership to focus on developing sensor technology, particularly for front camera systems, imaging, and radar systems for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and off-highway applications.

According to ZF, the partnership will further strengthen its portfolio as a systems supplier offering assistance systems and autonomous driving functions whereas Hella will benefit from a broader market access. The first joint development project in camera technology will start immediately, with the objective of a market launch in 2020.

“This strategic partnership for sensor technology with Hella enhances our position as a complete systems supplier for modern assistance systems as well as autonomous driving functions,” said Dr. Stefan Sommer, CEO of ZF. “This non-exclusive cooperation with Hella is an important expansion of our Vision Zero ecosystem of development partnerships. Thus, we can create a wider technological foundation for safety and autonomous driving.”

Dr. Rolf Breidenbach, CEO at Hella added, “Hella is a strong and experienced provider of sensor technologies. Our knowledge aligns perfectly with ZF’s expertise. By combining our strengths, we clearly aim to provide market leading and high performing assistance systems and autonomous driving functions. In addition, this cooperation will strengthen Hella’s position as a well-regarded supplier for imaging and radar sensor technologies.”