“Together on Track”: ZF presents Rail, Bus and Aftermarket solutions at InnoTrans 2026

Public transport plays an important role in urban and regional mobility. As cities grow and mobility requirements evolve, rail and bus networks will Remann essential for moving large numbers of passengers while contributing to lower emissions and less road congestion.

The challenge for operators is clear. Fleets (be they rail or bus) must become more reliable, cost-efficient and digitally connected while maintaining high levels of availability and passenger comfort. At InnoTrans 2026, ZF will demonstrate how innovative driveline technologies, chassis systems, digital solutions and lifecycle services can help public transport providers meet these requirements and prepare their fleets for the future.

“At InnoTrans 2026, we are showcasing the full strength of our portfolio and expertise,” says Markus Gross, Head of Product Line Rail Drive Systems. “This integrated approach embodies what ‘Together on Track’ stands for: partnering with manufacturers and operators across the entire vehicle lifecycle to deliver lasting value.”

Moving forward: Drive systems for every rail application

High-speed rail places exceptional demands on driveline components. At operating speeds of 250 to 450 km/h, gearboxes must withstand high mechanical loads while ensuring reliable and efficient operation. ZF’s helical gear drives have proven their performance in intensive service in China. With more than 14,000 units in operation, the CR450 gearbox is the latest addition to the company’s high-speed product portfolio and will be displayed at InnoTrans 2026.

Meanwhile, ZF’s other transmission solutions, like the modular EcoMet system, have set new benchmarks in metro and commuter applications and provide robust performance for everyday mobility. Last year, the company unveiled a new single-stage spur gear drive designed for the demanding requirements of Indian railways, which will also be shown at the convention. “The challenging terrains in India, coupled with extreme and ever-changing weather conditions along the routes, are a litmus test for every component,” says Markus Gross. “The performance of our transmission for the Indian market again highlights our commitment to excellent safety, reliability and efficiency.”

Together, these examples underline ZF’s expertise in developing driveline technologies tailored to regional market requirements and evolving mobility needs.

Proven chassis components for safe, comfortable journeys

In the field of chassis technologies, ZF will showcase solutions that contribute to ride comfort, operational stability and low lifecycle costs. Exhibits include ZF’s primary dampers, yaw dampers and torque rods for railway applications. Together, these technologies support precise vehicle guidance, enhanced passenger comfort and reliable operation under demanding service conditions.

Digital solutions: predictive maintenance with connect@rail

Maximizing uptime and guaranteeing smooth operation in modern rail services means investing in smart digital solutions. This is exactly what ZF delivers with connect@rail. The advanced condition monitoring platform provides continuous insights into both rail vehicle components and infrastructure. As a result, the system enables operators to detect emerging issues at an early stage, make data-driven predictive maintenance decisions and ultimately increase fleet availability.

Extending vehicle lifetime through service solutions, repowering and retrofit

ZF’s global footprint is complemented by its Aftermarket division, which can assist customers with a broad range of multi-brand maintenance, repairs, overhaul, retrofit and repowering services that cover driveline systems, dampers and more. With both on-site and remote service support, the company is helping operators worldwide to maximize availability throughout the entire vehicle lifecycle.

A key focus at InnoTrans 2026 will be on repowering solutions based on the EcoWorld 2 powershift transmission. Initial documented customer operations indicate that EcoWorld 2 can reduce fuel consumption by up to 20 percent compared with hydrodynamic transmissions, depending on the vehicle, route and operating profile. The solution can also reduce maintenance requirements and extend vehicle service life.

Public transport beyond rail

Public transport, of course, is not limited to rail vehicles. Buses and coaches play a key role in keeping people mobile, both in urban and rural areas. That is why ZF will also present selected solutions for these applications at InnoTrans 2026. Highlights include the CeTrax 2 dual electric central drive with up to 380 kW continuous power and the digital fleet management solution ZF Bus Connect. Together, these technologies demonstrate how ZF supports operators in building efficient, electrified and connected public transport systems across multiple modes of mobility.

ZF at InnoTrans 2026

Visitors can experience ZF’s latest technologies in hall 20, booth 580. Throughout the exhibition, the company will also host the ZF InnoForum series (daily at 3 p.m.) at its booth, bringing together ZF experts to discuss current developments in rail mobility. ZF will also unveil a new product innovation for the rail industry at the first of these events on September 22.