ZF and Foton expand partnership to hybrid transmission for China market

ZF and Foton are launching the TraXon 2 Hybrid transmission for trucks, aiming to improve efficiency and reduce emissions. The system will debut in China in 2026.

China / Germany- ZF Friedrichshafen AG., an advanced mobility products and systems for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and industrial technology provider and Beiqi Foton Motor Co., Ltd., a Chinese commercial vehicle manufacturer, have signed a Letter of Intent to enhance their strategic partnership. Building on their successful TraXon automatic transmission joint venture in China, they will now introduce ZF's new hybrid transmission for commercial vehicles. ZF will develop the TraXon 2 Hybrid system for heavy-duty trucks, and the joint venture will handle its production.

ZF’s Prof. Dr. Peter Laier, Member of the ZF Board of Management and responsible for the Commercial Vehicle Solutions Division, said, “This partnership leverages our respective resources, strengths and expertise to accelerate the development of our hybrid solution and help bring it to market quickly and cost effectively. The world premiere of the new hybrid transmission in China demonstrates ZF's determination to empower the transformation of China's new energy vehicles and promote the sustainable development of China's commercial vehicle industry.” 

Mr. Chang Rui, Chairman of Foton said, "Foton Motor has always adhered to the development strategy of efficient and low carbon vehicles. The hybrid AMT system is a key initiative for Foton and ZF to respond to the new energy transformation of commercial vehicles. The signing of this strategic cooperation agreement not only marks the deepening of cooperation between the two parties, but also signifies that Foton will bring more diversified commercial vehicle solutions to China and even the global market, and further promote the green transformation and sustainable development of the industry."

As China’s commercial vehicle market rapidly shifts toward new energy solutions, hybrid technology is emerging as a key factor in decarbonization. ZF, with its expertise in hybrid systems for passenger cars, is now offering cost-effective hybrid technologies for commercial vehicles. The TraXon 2 Hybrid features a highly integrated design and powerful hybrid module, making it easy for OEMs to add hybrid capabilities to existing platforms. It enhances efficiency, reduces CO2 emissions, and maintains the range and refueling benefits of traditional engines. Suitable for both full-hybrid and plug-in hybrid heavy-duty vehicles, TraXon 2 Hybrid offers flexibility for various vehicle architectures.

The system is expected to enter SOP globally in 2026, starting with the Chinese market.