Post the acquisition of TRW Automotive on May 15, 2015, ZF is now represented at about 230 locations in some 40 countries. The combined company has a 100 year track record of customer benefit and value creation and a strong complementary product portfolio of leading technologies. "The portfolio combines the powertrain and chassis technologies including e-mobility solutions and electronics of ZF with the safety, steering, braking and autonomous driving technology of TRW.
"It diversifies across industries, spanning from passenger cars to utility vehicles such as trucks, buses and tractors and includes in addition construction machines, marine, railway, wind power and industrial technology. This very comprehensive portfolio is the right answer to the mega trends in an increasingly disruptive industry such as autonomous driving, safety and fuel efficiency," Suresh says.
Globally, ZF Friedrichshafen AG successfully completed the year 2014 with sales growth of nine percent which once again is above the industry average. The company generated sales of EUR 18.4 billion. At the same time, ZF has improved profitability, with earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) rising more than one-third to about EUR 1.1 billion. The regions of North America (EUR 3.7 billion) and Asia-Pacific (EUR 3.6 billion) were top contributors to the company's record sales of EUR 18.4 billion, with each region increasing sales by 21 percent.
ZF has recently launched its passenger car clutch systems designed to meet demanding driving conditions in India. "We have signed up with some of the biggest domestic OEMs and are in talks with several others for possible partnerships in the near future. We will be closely monitoring the response to this product and take next steps," Suresh informs.
Government's increased safety norms have worked as a catalyst for companies to pay special attention to safety systems. Suresh believes that ZF has been ahead of its times with regards to safety of its products as the company understands that dense traffic and high speed characterizes everyday life on roads.
"Additionally, not only road safety but ZF is particular about environmental norms in India. Compliance and enforcement programs by the Government of India aims to ensure that, even after a period of use, vehicle emissions of criteria pollutants are met. ZF's strategy is to grow from bringing advanced technology to India and develop products in India for India which would tackle these issues and provide sustainable products."
His mantra for taking Indian auto components sector to the next level is two-fold: 1. Performance on QC and D, and 2. Quickly adapting to changes - because change is constant in life. Suresh personal vision for ZF in India is achieving multifold growth and at the same time become a preferred employer.
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