In an era where commercial vehicles are becoming increasingly automated, electrified, and connected, advanced vehicle motion control technologies are crucial. ZF, a global leader in driveline and chassis technology, has expanded its cubiX vehicle motion control system to include commercial vehicles. Originally developed for passenger cars, cubiX now provides a comprehensive solution for managing the complex systems of commercial vehicles.
Introducing cubiX
As commercial vehicles adopt more electronic control functionalities, the demand for dedicated control units has surged. ZF’s cubiX system offers a centralised control software that manages all vehicle actuators, including brakes, driveline, and steering. This cohesive management ensures vehicle stability, safety, precision, and performance. With the expansion of cubiX to commercial vehicles, ZF customises the system to meet the specific needs of these vehicles, offering software, hardware, system integration, and engineering services.
Leveraging cross-divisional synergies
Dr. Holger Klein, CEO of ZF Group, highlights the strategic expansion of the cubiX platform. “It was obvious for us to expand our software platform portfolio for Vehicle Motion Control to meet the needs of commercial vehicles. Adapting innovative technologies developed for one mobility application to several segments has always been one of ZF’s strengths and competitive advantages,” he said.
Prof. Dr. Peter Laier, ZF Board of Management member responsible for the commercial vehicle business, emphasises the benefits for customers. “Our commercial vehicle customers benefit from the concentrated know-how of the ZF Group when it comes to software and function development. This integration of modern assistance systems significantly increases the safety of commercial vehicles.”
Automation potential in commercial vehicles
cubiX interfaces with all virtual driver systems and vehicle actuators to ensure safety, precision, and performance in challenging scenarios like freight yards and ports. These environments offer greater potential for deploying automated technologies compared to public roads. Automating vehicle movements in such settings can boost efficiency and productivity while addressing logistics industry challenges like driver shortages, especially during night-time operations.
By simplifying vehicle motion control, cubiX allows OEMs and virtual driver system suppliers to focus on their core competencies in perception, planning, and vehicle management. ZF’s X-by-wire product portfolio ensures that vehicle motion control systems are ‘ready-to-automate’.
Proven success in real-world conditions
The cubiX system has been tested extensively in real-life conditions. A recent long-term pilot study in Germany demonstrated its effectiveness in a freight yard, confirming its capability in managing complex vehicle motions. This success story highlights the potential of cubiX in revolutionising commercial vehicle operations.
A strong foundation in passenger cars
cubiX has already proven its worth in the passenger car market. Its modular structure offers a standardised range of basic functions, creating synergy effects in the development and optimisation of driving-specific functions. For instance, the “Variable Driving Characteristics” function allows drivers to customise their car’s driving character, ranging from comfortable cruising to sporty sprints. Another feature, “Trailer Stability Assist,” minimises the inclination of trailers, enhancing the stability and safety of the car-trailer combination.
In collaboration with The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, ZF has integrated Goodyear SightLine into the cubiX ecosystem. This integration provides additional tyre and road data, enhancing the vehicle motion control software. Goodyear’s tyre intelligence technologies can detect aquaplaning situations early and recommend optimal speeds for better vehicle control. If an increased risk of aquaplaning is detected, cubiX reduces the vehicle’s speed, supports the driver’s reaction, and helps stabilise the vehicle.
A strategic move for future mobility
ZF’s expansion of cubiX to commercial vehicles represents a strategic move to harness the potential of advanced vehicle motion control technologies. By leveraging its cross-divisional expertise and innovative solutions, ZF is well-positioned to support the evolving needs of the commercial vehicle market. As automation, electrification, and connectivity continue to reshape the automotive landscape, systems like cubiX will play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and performance of future vehicles.
ZF’s advanced cubiX vehicle motion control system is now set to revolutionise commercial vehicle operations, providing a comprehensive solution for managing complex vehicle systems and paving the way for higher levels of automation and efficiency in the logistics industry.