ZF has presented City Bus Assist, a proof-of-concept system combining perception sensors, automated steering assistance and coordinated suspension kneeling to support bus stop approaches for city buses.
The system is designed to help align buses precisely with the curb while automatically lowering suspension to reduce the step gap for boarding, and is part of ZF’s broader effort to integrate ADAS, braking, steering and suspension technologies into a coordinated system for bus OEMs and public transportation operators.
Automated steering assistance helps guide the bus precisely alongside the curb during heavy traffic, while the suspension automatically lowers to allow step-free boarding.
“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 at ZF Group.
“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 and chassis technologies and software.
Presented for the very first time at ZF’s CV Tech Day (June 18, 2026), 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.
Further solutions presented at the Tech Day include City Bus CMS, CDC Skyhook and e-comp Scroll.
City Bus CMS is a collision mitigation system designed for city buses that detects vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians and can trigger braking to help mitigate or avoid collisions. It builds on ZF’s OnGuardMAX ADAS platform.
CDC Skyhook is a software-based damping system that continuously adjusts damper performance in real time, based on inputs from external sensors and CAN signals, with the stated aim of improving vehicle stability and ride comfort.
E-comp Scroll is an oil-free electric air compressor that supports braking and suspension systems, producing less noise and vibration than conventional compressors; improving comfort, particularly in electric buses, ZF says; and requiring less maintenance since it eliminates the need for lubrication.
ZF will present its latest technologies for commercial vehicles at IAA Transportation 2026 in September.
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