ZF, supplier of automotive systems for passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, and industrial technology, has inaugurated its 19th manufacturing plant in India at Oragadam in Tamil Nadu. With a Rs 1,800-crore project outlay, the company plans to improve its manufacturing presence and expansion in India, wherein the investment would be realised by 2030.
Spread over an area of 44.08 acres, the new manufacturing facility, for the first phase of the project, covers an area of 7,200 sq. mtrs. facility and boasts ZF’s advanced production technology. The new site will produce components and systems for electric vehicles (EVs) including the electric compressors, for electric and hybrid commercial vehicle (CV) applications. The facility will also produce electronic braking system (EBS), ASP cartridges, hydraulic ESC, wheel end solutions, digital FBV, ADB and even central drives by the next 10 years.
The Oragadam plant reinforces the company's thrust towards local manufacturing while simultaneously catering to global markets. It would create opportunities and empower talent in line with the projected domestic growth avenues.It will offer pioneering innovative solutions in safety, automated, connected, and electric domains for commercial and passenger vehicles and grow exports as a centre of excellence for manufacturing and frugal engineering.
The Oragadam facility also plays a role in ZF’s goal to be climate neutral by 2040, as the plant will focus on 100 percent renewable energy including both solar and wind power generation in long-term contracts. It is also built with rainwater harvesting infrastructure, targeting to be water positive by 2025.
For ZF, India is a global hub for manufacturing excellence and to strengthen its design, engineering, and manufacturing capabilities. This site is expected to set a benchmark for digital and sustainable manufacturing.