Key developments that are impacting technology companies like ZF are shorter innovation cycles, new business models and new software solutions. ZF promises to deliver intelligent mechanical systems that enable vehicles to see, think and act. However, to do so, ZF needs innovations and new ways of thinking from inside and outside the company. In light of the changing industry dynamics, ZF is giving budding start-ups an opportunity for long-term associations and direct investments. Expanding partnerships with start-ups allows ZF greater innovations in engineering and accelerated speed to market.
The company is working towards building a closer link to young and innovative enterprises dealing with disruptive trends and opportunities related to connected mobility. For ZF, the continuous engagement could provide ideas as well as new and possibly unconventional solutions. These may not be limited to traditional technologies but other new mobility innovations.
“Collaboration with start-ups will accelerate the digitalization of our products, processes and culture. Expanding our partnerships with newly emerging start-ups alongside our traditional partners will help us to deliver added value to our customers through enhanced products and services”, explains Ms.Mamatha Chamarthi, Chief Digital Officer of ZF.
“ZF has multiple benefits from working with start-ups including unconventional thinking, creative new processes and quick turnaround of an idea to a scalable product. Moreover, the closer contact to start-ups will have a positive influence on our corporate culture”, she further adds.
In addition to the work with start-ups ZF focuses on a global engineering footprint to deliver the digital capabilities. The India Technology Center in Hyderabad is one important pillar of that footprint and fits seamlessly into ZF’s research and development network. The demand for software solutions is growing, and ZF is increasing its capacity in this field exponentially to support customers’ growth aspirations in both global and local markets.
The company considers technology opportunities which support its Strategy 2025, which was established to respond to and shape the key automotive megatrends in the coming years. It aims to redefine tomorrow’s mobility and develop products that supplement ZF’s core business activities.