ZF has crossed a major manufacturing milestone with the production of its 100 millionth electric power steering (EPS) system, underscoring the growing role of electrically assisted steering in modern vehicle platforms and the industry’s transition toward software-defined vehicles.
The company announced that cumulative global production of its EPS systems has reached 100 million units, marking 25 years since it introduced the technology in 2001 as an alternative to conventional hydraulic steering. What began as an efficiency-focused solution has since become a key component supporting advanced vehicle architectures.
According to ZF, electric power steering has gained prominence as automakers seek improved energy efficiency, lower emissions and greater software integration. Unlike hydraulic systems that continuously consume engine power, EPS operates only when steering assistance is required, helping reduce energy consumption while supporting compliance with increasingly stringent CO₂ emission requirements.
The company said its EPS portfolio serves a wide range of vehicle categories, from compact passenger cars to performance SUVs and commercial vehicles. Its product lineup includes column-drive, dual-pinion and belt-drive configurations, allowing manufacturers to select steering systems suited to different vehicle sizes and performance requirements.
ZF also highlighted the strategic importance of EPS in the evolution of software-defined vehicles (SDVs). The technology forms the foundation for steer-by-wire systems, which eliminate the mechanical connection between the steering wheel and road wheels. The company noted that its steer-by-wire technology has already entered series production on a global scale.
Ramiro Gutiérrez, Senior Vice President of ZF’s Steering Product Line and President of ZF North America, said the production milestone reflects the company’s long-standing leadership in steering technology. He noted that electric power steering has become the industry standard by combining efficiency, scalability and software readiness while providing the technological base for future steer-by-wire systems.
ZF attributed the achievement to continuous innovation supported by its global engineering and manufacturing network spanning Asia, Europe and North and South America. The company said ongoing collaboration across these regions has enabled it to scale production while advancing steering technologies for next-generation mobility.
Source : ZF Driving Change: 100 Million Electric Power Steering Systems produced – ZF
