ZF Friedrichshafen AG and BMW Group have signed a multi-billion-euro, long-term supply agreement centered on the continued development of ZF’s 8-speed automatic transmission (8HP). The deal, which runs through the late 2030s, focuses on advancing the 8HP platform to support electrified powertrain architectures while maintaining planning stability for both companies.
Highlights
- ZF and BMW signed a multi-billion-euro supply agreement extending through the late 2030s for the 8HP automatic transmission platform.
- The 8HP will undergo continuous development with a focus on electrified drive compatibility, efficiency, and performance.
- The partnership provides long-term planning stability for both companies amid rapid powertrain technology shifts.
- ZF strengthens its position as a tier-one system supplier with additional development certainty in a transitioning market.
8HP Platform Targets Electrified Drive Evolution
The agreement centers on the supply and ongoing engineering evolution of ZF’s proven 8HP transmission. The platform will be developed to meet the demands of future drive concepts, with particular emphasis on electrified applications. ZF describes the 8HP as a key technology for the broader transformation of passenger car drive systems.
“Together with BMW, we are sending a strong signal for innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in an industry undergoing dynamic change,” said Mathias Miedreich, CEO of ZF. He characterized the 8HP as strategically central to ZF’s powertrain roadmap.
Long-Term Planning Supports Next-Generation Development
Sebastian Schmitt, Head of ZF’s Electrified Drive Technologies division, emphasized the value of extended planning horizons. The agreement enables ZF to align the next generation of the 8HP specifically toward three priorities:
- Efficiency improvements for lower-emission operation
- Performance gains across electrified drive configurations
- Long-term viability in a rapidly shifting regulatory and market landscape
Schmitt noted that the deal creates clarity and stability for both companies, reducing development risk in a volatile market.
Strategic Implications for ZF
The agreement reinforces ZF’s role as a system-level supplier to major OEMs. Close collaboration with BMW is expected to mitigate risks associated with the ongoing powertrain transition and support ZF’s broader electrification strategy.
ZF reported global sales of €41.4 billion in fiscal 2024. The company operates 161 production locations across 30 countries and employs approximately 161,600 people worldwide.
For more information, visit www.zf.com.
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