ZF Aftermarket unveils future-proof mobility solutions at Automechanika Frankfurt 2024

Date: Thursday 18 July 2024

---

• World Premiere of ZF [pro]Manager: Taking customer relationship into the digital world
• New Sachs Air Struts: Launching a premium OE quality part that combine air spring and shock absorber
• Celebrating 40 Years of Workshop Concepts: Marking four decades of innovation and partnership in the automotive aftermarket

ZF Aftermarket will be exhibiting at Automechanika Frankfurt 2024 to showcase its newest products and solutions designed to enhance the operations of professionals that support the ecosystem. Located in the exclusive "Forum" building, ZF will feature a marketplace-like environment catering to its key customer target groups. It includes specific areas for Distributors, Workshops, and Fleets, focusing on the audience's needs. On the other side, the Heritage Area will highlight ZF's long-standing innovation and partnerships. The Hands-On Area will offer live training sessions and product demonstrations.

Philippe Colpron, Head of ZF Aftermarket, said: "Automechanika Frankfurt is the perfect place to discuss with our customers and partners from around the world how we will, together, navigate rapid industry changes and technological advancements. We will be presenting there the latest extensions to our renowned broad and deep portfolio of quality products, and also showcase value-added ecosystem solutions that drive the necessary digital transformation in the operations of our partners, demonstrating our dedication to driving the industry forward.”

Interactive focus screens will be installed throughout the exhibition stand, enabling visitors to explore ZF’s complete product and service portfolio tailored to their individual needs. This hands-on approach ensures that visitors leave with practical knowledge and insights into ZF's offerings.

This year, among many new developments to be unveiled at Automechanika 2024, ZF Aftermarket is set to premier ZF [pro]Manager, introduce new Sachs Air Struts, and celebrate the 40th anniversary of its Workshop Concepts. These milestones reflect ZF’s commitment to innovation, quality, and long-term partnerships in the automotive aftermarket.

Taking customer relationship into the digital world with ZF [pro]Manager

With its global innovation ZF [pro]Manager, ZF Aftermarket will present a holistic digital management tool at Automechanika 2024 that enables automotive workshops to deal professionally with modern customer requirements. Today's customers expect a convenient digital service characterised by seamless and transparent communication, as well as proactive information and digital payment options. Through proactive and transparent information to car owners, workshops have the opportunity to significantly strengthen customer loyalty and generate additional business.

ZF [pro]Manager improves the customer journey through automated customer communication from the workshop to car owners and order processing. This leads to increased efficiency and less telephone work. The browser-based system offers a customer-friendly front end and enables smooth workshop processes from quote approval with video support to digital invoicing and payment. Additional business opportunities arise, for example, through automated promotions and digital connectivity to booking and fleet solutions. The modern user experience increases customer satisfaction and loyalty through fast and transparent communication.

Launching Sachs Air Struts that combine Air Spring and CDC Shock Absorber

Due to the increasing number of vehicles with air suspension, workshops are increasingly confronted with this topic. With the new Sachs Air Struts, independent vehicle workshops now have a complete solution to provide their customers with the best possible service in this area. The combination of air spring and shock absorber in one part enables perfect interaction between the two key components.

To start with, ZF Aftermarket will introduce a range of air struts including Sachs CDC Shock Absorbers. In use, sensors monitor all influences on the movement of the vehicle. These signals are processed by a control unit, which transmits the required damping forces to the proportional damping valve every two milliseconds. This continuously adjusts the damping forces according to the respective driving situation and road conditions. In difficult driving situations, for example, the damping is automatically set harder. For the driver, this means more control and stability, but also more comfort. Sachs Air Struts - which correspond to OE parts in terms of quality, function and accuracy of fit - will be available for Audi Q7, Porsche Cayenne and VW Touareg, among others, at the start of sales.

Marking four decades of innovation and partnership in the automotive aftermarket

ZF Aftermarket marks the 40th anniversary of its workshop concepts, a legacy that began in 1984 with the launch of Original SACHS Service (OSS). Over the decades, ZF has continuously evolved its offerings, culminating in the comprehensive ZF [pro]Tech service package introduced in 2012. Today, over 12,000 automotive businesses in Europe benefit from ZF [pro]Tech’s technical support, training, and exclusive service information.

Reflecting on this milestone, Philippe Colpron states: "Creating strong customer relationships is core to our values. The loyalty and commitment of our workshop partners have been crucial to ZF Aftermarket's recognition as a leading workshop partner globally."

ZF Aftermarket’s participation in Automechanika 2024 underscores its role as a leader in the automotive aftermarket. By unveiling its latest innovations, ZF demonstrates its unwavering commitment to supporting customers in delivering exceptional service and driving digital transformation.

For more information, visit the ZF Aftermarket page dedicated to its presence at Automechanika 2024.

---