ZF Introduces City Bus Assist for Safer, Smarter Bus Stop Approaches
ZF has introduced City Bus Assist, a perception-sensor-based system that automates steering and suspension lowering at bus stops to improve safety and accessibility.
- 2026
What Happened
ZF has unveiled City Bus Assist, a proof of concept that automates steering assistance and coordinated kneeling at bus stops. The system uses perception sensors to guide the vehicle precisely to the curb while minimizing lateral tire scrub, and integrated suspension control lowers the bus smoothly for step-free access. ZF aims to support bus OEMs and public transport operators in improving safety, efficiency, and total cost of ownership.
“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 wh”
- City Bus Assist: Automated steering with integrated kneeling control for precise curb alignment and barrier-free boarding.
- City Bus CMS: Collision mitigation system that detects vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians and can initiate braking to avoid collisions.
- CDC Skyhook: Software-based damping algorithm that adapts damper performance in real time for improved ride comfort.
- e-comp Scroll: Low-noise, oil-free electric air compressor for braking and suspension, reducing noise and maintenance.
ZF also highlighted its holistic portfolio for bus manufacturers and operators, including electrification solutions like the AxTrax 2 LF electric portal axle and digital fleet services such as ZF Bus Connect. The company will showcase these technologies at IAA Transportation 2026 in Hall 21, Booth B42.
Previously from ZF
ZF previously showcased an evolutionary approach to software-defined commercial vehicles, improving safety and efficiency while protecting existing investments. The City Bus Assist system builds on that strategy by integrating ADAS, braking, steering, and suspension specifically for urban bus operations.
Background drawn from MotorClaw's earlier coverage of ZF's official releases.
Why this matters
City Bus Assist enhances passenger comfort and safety by enabling precise, automated bus stop approaches with step-free boarding. This integration of ADAS, braking, steering, and suspension helps reduce accidents in complex urban traffic, benefiting passengers, drivers, and public transport operators.
Terms in This Story
- ADAS
- Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems, which use sensors and software to assist the driver in operating the vehicle safely.
- kneeling
- A function where a bus lowers its suspension to reduce the step height, making boarding easier for passengers with mobility challenges.
- CDC Skyhook
- A continuous damping control algorithm that adjusts suspension stiffness in real time to improve ride comfort and vehicle stability.
Summarised from the linked release; details can be imperfect — always verify against the original source.