ZF has introduced City Bus Assist, a new perception sensor-based driver assistance solution designed to make city bus operations safer, smarter, and more passenger-friendly. Unveiled ahead of IAA Transportation 2026, scheduled to take place in Hanover from September 14–20, the technology combines automated steering assistance with coordinated suspension kneeling to improve bus stop approach accuracy, accessibility, and overall operational efficiency.
The system enables buses to steer precisely alongside the curb while automatically lowering the suspension to provide step-free boarding and alighting. By integrating advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), chassis technologies, and intelligent software functions, City Bus Assist is designed to support bus manufacturers and public transport operators in enhancing safety, passenger comfort, operational efficiency, and total cost of ownership.
During ZF’s CV Tech Day, the company demonstrated how the technology can simplify one of the most demanding aspects of urban bus driving. Automated steering assistance helps drivers maintain an optimal approach to the curb even in dense traffic, while controlled deceleration and coordinated suspension adjustment create a smoother, more predictable experience for passengers.
ZF said the new solution reflects its broader strategy of delivering software-driven vehicle intelligence for commercial vehicles, enabling safer and more efficient public transport through the seamless integration of advanced chassis systems and driver assistance technologies.
“In complex urban environments, city buses must meet multiple demands at the same time: protecting road users and passengers, ensuring a smooth ride even during stop-and-go city traffic, while also continuing to work reliably,” said Ivan Brajdic, Head of R&D, Commercial Vehicle Solutions Division. “We create connected system intelligence across advanced driver assistance systems, chassis control systems and software functions to support drivers in critical situations while improving comfort and accessibility for passengers and enabling more efficient fleet operation.”
Integrated systems for safer and passenger-centric city bus operation
ZF’s approach to city bus operation is based on the intelligent interaction of driver assistance systems, chassis technologies and software, illustrated at CV Tech Day through the following innovations for urban bus applications:
- City Bus Assist: Presented for the very first time at ZF’s CV Tech Day, this proof of concept supports drivers during bus stop approaches by automating steering assistance with integrated kneeling control. The system helps guide the vehicle precisely to the curb while minimizing lateral tire scrub. Integrated suspension control optimizes kneeling to reduce the vertical entry gap for barrier-free boarding.
- City Bus CMS (Collision Mitigation System): A dedicated safety system tailored for city buses that actively detects vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians and can initiate braking to mitigate or avoid collisions, contributing to improved safety for standing passengers and other road users. The system builds on ZF’s ADAS portfolio, including OnGuardMAX platform, designed to meet evolving safety requirements and support higher levels of driver assistance. City Bus CMS is already in use today by well-known bus OEMs.
- CDC Skyhook: A software-based damping algorithm that continuously adapts damper performance in real time. It stabilizes vehicle movements, enhancing ride comfort for passengers and improving overall vehicle dynamics.
- e-comp Scroll: A low-noise, oil-free electric air compressor that supports braking and suspension systems. Its reduced noise and vibration, improves comfort, especially in electric buses, while lowering maintenance requirements.
A holistic portfolio to support OEMs and public transport operators
Alongside the technologies presented above, ZF continues to expand its portfolio for bus manufacturers and operators. At Busworld Türkiye, the company recently showcased its electrification solutions, including the AxTrax 2 LF electric portal axle with optional digital condition monitoring capabilities, alongside further enhancements to its digital fleet services portfolio such as ZF Bus Connect. Together, these solutions underline ZF’s commitment to the bus industry and form part of a comprehensive portfolio spanning ADAS, braking, steering, chassis, driveline, electrification and digital fleet management technologies.
ZF at IAA Transportation 2026
ZF will present its latest technologies for commercial vehicles at IAA Transportation 2026 (Hanover, September 14–20, Hall 21, Booth B42).
