ZF Lifetec, a key player in passive vehicle safety technologies, has inaugurated its new Global Capability Center in Hyderabad, marking a significant step towards the company’s expansion and innovation. With an investment of 5 million euros (USD 5.5 million), the facility is set to drive advancements in passive safety technology both in India and globally, bolstering the company’s strategy to address the growing demand for solutions in vehicle occupant protection.
Innovation and safety
The new center is part of ZF Lifetec’s ongoing carve-out from the ZF Group, a process expected to be completed by the end of September. With this move, the company aims to enhance its global development footprint and solidify its presence in India’s rapidly growing market.
Rudolf Stark, Executive Vice President of ZF Lifetec, emphasised the importance of the facility’s role in boosting the company’s global operations. “The inauguration strengthens our global development footprint. Customer proximity is vital for our growth, and India is a rising market. At the same time, we can serve global engineering needs out of India very quickly and competitively,” said Stark.
However, Stark also acknowledged the challenges of providing a business outlook so early in the center’s operations. “It will be difficult to comment on future aspects and exports at this stage, since this is a new facility,” he stated.
A hub for global collaboration
The new Global Capability Center currently employs around 220 professionals, with plans for future expansion. It will focus on developing and delivering passive safety technologies, including seatbelts, airbags, and steering systems, with an emphasis on enhancing road safety in India.
Akash Passey, President of ZF Group India, highlighted the broader impact of the facility, particularly in addressing road safety challenges. “There are over 150,000 road accident-related deaths in India. We are the highest in the world. As ZF Lifetec, we want to take a role in making a change by translating our technology into the country, providing safety solutions to OEMs and car manufacturers in India at a competitive cost.”
Ravikumar Tirumukulu, Executive Director of ZF Lifetec India, said, “This facility embodies our commitment to capabilities, innovation, and global engagement. With a focus on technology development for passive safety, we’re not only enhancing our technical expertise but also fostering a culture of collaboration and knowledge-sharing across borders.”
“This center will serve as a beacon for innovation, driving advancements in safety standards and delivering significant value to our customers worldwide. As we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, I’m excited to see the impact our team will make in shaping a safer, more sustainable future for all,” Tirumukulu added.
Government support and future growth
The inauguration was attended by D Sridhar Babu, Minister of IT for Telangana, who highlighted the state’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting business growth. He praised ZF Lifetec for its contribution to local talent development.
“Technology should bring a qualitative change in human life, and this center embodies that vision. ZF Lifetec is contributing to road safety and technological advancement, which will benefit not only India but also the global community,” said the Minister. He added, “We are here to support the industry and guarantee the skilled workforce required for the manufacturing sector. The ease of doing business in Telangana is unmatched, and we stand ready to facilitate ZF’s growth in every way possible.”
The minister also expressed optimism about the long-term potential of ZF Lifetec’s operations in the state. “We hope to see this center grow to 5,000 employees in the coming years, contributing to both local development and ZF’s global strategy. With the state’s investor-friendly policies, we are confident this partnership will lead to exponential growth and success.”
The minister assured continued support from the Telangana government
