ZF has presented City Bus Assist, a proof-of-concept system combining automated steering assistance and coordinated suspension kneeling control, at CV Tech Day ahead of IAA Transportation 2026 in Hanover. The technology guides buses accurately to the kerb during stop approaches while automatically lowering the suspension to reduce the boarding step gap and improve passenger access.

Perception sensors manage the vehicle’s lateral position during approach, minimising tyre scrub and holding a consistent line relative to the kerb. ZF demonstrated the system at CV Tech Day, a press event staged ahead of the Hanover show in September. The firm presented City Bus Assist as part of a broader strategy to integrate advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), chassis control and software into a unified capability for city bus operations.

Three further technologies were also presented alongside it. City Bus CMS is a collision mitigation system (CMS) already in production use with bus OEMs, detecting vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians and initiating braking as required. CDC Skyhook adapts suspension damping in real time to stabilise ride comfort, while the e-comp Scroll is a low-noise, oil-free electric air compressor supporting braking and suspension with reduced maintenance demands.

Ivan Brajdic, Head of R&D, Commercial Vehicle Solutions Division, said ZF’s aim was to “create connected system intelligence across advanced driver assistance systems, chassis control systems and software functions,” supporting drivers in critical urban situations while improving passenger accessibility and enabling more efficient fleet operation.

Source: ZF