ZF has unveiled City Bus Assist, its brand-new perception-sensor-based solution for automated steering assistance and coordinated kneeling at bus stops.
Presented during the company’s CV Tech Day, a press event ahead of IAA Transportation 2026, the new solution aims to demonstrate how the smart integration of software functions across chassis technologies and advanced driver assistance systems might aid bus OEMs and public transport operators to improve safety, efficiency and total cost of ownership.
ZF has stated that it has based its approach to city bus operation on the interaction between driver assistance systems, chassis technologies and software. As part of this approach, the company re-introduced its lineup of solutions aimed at urban bus applications during the event, including:
- 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 also aims to help guide the vehicle precisely to the curb whilst minimising lateral tire scrub, and integrated suspension control seeks to optimise 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 seeks to detect 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
- CDC Skyhook: A software-based damping algorithm that seeks to continuously adapt damper performance in real time with an aim to stabilise vehicle movements, enhance 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, which aims to reduce both noise and vibration, improve comfort and lower maintenance requirements
Ivan Brajdic, Head of R&D, Commercial Vehicle Solutions Division, said: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.
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.
