ZF Bets Big on Hybrid Transmissions

May 22, 2026

Ryan Gehm

System details of the TraXon 2 Hybrid transmission. (ZF)

ZF foresees hybrid powertrain technology becoming more popular for commercial transport in the coming years, and it’s working earnestly to be a major player in that realm.

The supplier unveiled the TraXon 2 Hybrid transmission to the North American commercial vehicle market at last year’s ACT Expo and is now evaluating the technology in real-world conditions. The next-gen automated manual transmission (AMT) is optimized to improve fuel efficiency for plug-in and full hybrid heavy-duty trucks and coaches, as well as special applications such as medium- to heavy-duty mobile cranes.

The hybrid variant is based on the TraXon 2 production design, which reduces fuel consumption compared to its predecessor that was launched in 2014. The second-generation platform is equipped with next-gen microprocessors, integrated security modules and functional software upgrades. In-house-designed and manufactured ECU and shift actuators have been updated as well.

The TraXon 2 Hybrid premiered in a ZF test vehicle in November 2025 for real-world testing. (ZF)

“By integrating our next-generation control processor and our upgraded software functionalities, including cybersecurity readiness, it allows fleets to benefit from smaller and more responsive driveline controls,” said Christian Feldhaus, VP of the Transmissions and Hybrids product segment at ZF’s Commercial Vehicle Solutions Division.

The new hybrid AMT features an oil-cooled, permanent magnet synchronous hairpin electric motor that can deliver up to 190 kW of continuous power (225 kW peak). The unit integrates a one-gear transmission and a dedicated transmission control unit with software for seamless operation between conventional and electric drive.

Positioned in the P2 layout between the clutch and transmission, the e-motor supports the combustion engine in boost mode or enables regenerative braking. Power is transmitted via a planetary gear directly to the input shaft, allowing the truck to drive in full electric mode.

An independent 600-800 V silicon carbide (SiC) inverter is designed for flexible system set up and to ensure optimal e-powertrain efficiency. Integration of the ZF Intarder is optional for smoother deceleration, increased braking comfort and reduced brake wear. Various PTO options are available as well.

“The debut of the TraXon 2 Hybrid in North America highlights ZF’s commitment to advancing cleaner mobility solutions for the commercial vehicle industry,” said John Hawkins, Senior Vice President of the Americas, Commercial Vehicle Solutions at ZF. “Whether it’s full electrification, hybrid systems or highly efficient ICE-based transmissions, we’re focused on delivering performance and total cost of ownership advantages across all segments.”

The new hybrid module supports OEMs in transforming current vehicle platforms into hybrid platforms with minimized effort and complexity, Hawkins said. It can be combined with diesel, HVO/e-fuels, CNG/LPG or hydrogen combustion engines.

The hybrid AMT is still in the development phase. ZF’s goal for market launch is reportedly in 2028.

ZF’s new TraXon 2 Hybrid transmission system for heavy commercial vehicles is based on the proven TraXon 2 transmission platform. (ZF)

Real-world testing

ZF’s new TraXon 2 Hybrid transmission is now proving its capabilities in real-world conditions. European transport fleets and members of the German Association for Freight Transport, Logistics and Waste Disposal were able to experience the system firsthand in ZF’s test vehicle in November 2025.

Early evaluations have been positive, according to ZF, with tests confirming that the hybrid system can significantly reduce emissions and lower TCO, while meeting the operational demands of modern fleets.

Calculations using the VECTO simulation tool have shown a CO2 reduction potential of up to 47% in long-haul transport and up to 73% in distribution transport, with consistent recharging. ZF states that this directly addresses fleet targets set for 2030 and creates flexibility regarding future toll and tax regulations. The supplier supports the call for PHEV trucks within European toll systems, including total weight compensation, to be classified similarly to how electric trucks are currently.

“We believe the hybrid powertrain will become an important technology for commercial transport,” Feldhaus said. “In applications with high daily mileage, the classic long-haul truck needs a pragmatic and charging infrastructure independent solution. The hybrid powertrain will enable OEMs and fleets to achieve their CO2 reduction targets, while also delivering a strong economic business case in terms of cost effectiveness.”

Predictive charging

Alex Esgolmin, head of driveline technologies for North America, agrees that hybrid technology combines the “best of both worlds,” enabling a smaller engine to be used on the same size truck and eliminating range-anxiety concerns stemming from full e-mobility. “You address some of the major issues that the fleets are seeing. So the fleets are super excited about this [technology] for sure,” he said.

Esgolmin said that predictive charging before entering zero-emission zones to ensure full battery charge is a “super cool” feature of the hybrid system. This feature also enables automatic transition from combustion to full e-drive mode in urban environments that require clean operation. The technology is based on a GPS signal in communication with ZF’s ECU.

“Basically, the truck can verify geographically where it is and then it can crosscheck if that specific area has a mandate for [zero] emissions,” Esgolmin said. “Then the truck transitions into full electric mode, so you don’t have any tailpipe emissions in that area. That’s all done automatically.”