ZF, the global leader in foundation brake systems, has solidified its position with the production of 250 million Electric Park Brake (EPB) units, becoming the first company to attain this milestone while maintaining its commitment to enhance overall brake system performance along with driver safety and comfort.

Pioneered by ZF nearly 25 years ago, the EPB is in its sixth generation today and stands out for its ability to increase fuel efficiency by lowering the weight of the braking system. In addition, it is an important step towards the electrification of mechanical systems, and it may perform sophisticated functions when combined with other vehicle systems. By enabling two-wheel anti-lock emergency stops and offering quick activation with only a button press, the EPB further improves driver safety. The EPB is completely incorporated into the braking system and is not limited to parking. It minimises the deterioration linked to conventional mechanical systems and has dynamic actuation and brake pad wear detection.

Danny Milot, Senior Vice-President – Braking Engineering, ZF said, “When the shift from purely mechanical service brake functions began in the early 2000s, ZF had already been established as a global leader in the foundation brake market. The continued success of the EPB emphasises that position as this technology is featured on many of the world’s most popular vehicles, from small cars to large pick-up trucks and SUVs. As we move toward advanced safety, automated driving and vehicle electrification, braking systems continue to play a pivotal role. ZF will maintain its position is a leader, continuing to relentlessly pursue innovation while setting new standards for the automotive industry.”

Pankaj M Munjal-led Hero Motors has announced a new joint venture with German component manufacturer SchmiedeTechnik Plettenberg (SchmiedeTechnik) in India.

Based out of Hero Industrial Park in Ludhiana, Punjab the new JV will manufacture forged powertrain components in the country for the global markets.

Pankaj M Munjal, Group Chairman Hero Motors, said, “With our strong R&D manufacturing capabilities, this partnership with STP (SchmiedeTechnik) will enable us to capture a significant share of the global powertrain components market.”

Cornel Mueller, Chairman & CEO, SchmiedeTechnik, said, “Partnering with HML strengthens our global footprint and enhances cost efficiencies. Beyond manufacturing in India, our goal is to foster cross-border knowledge exchange and integrate best practices between Germany and India.”

SchmiedeTechnik is a leading player in forging and metallurgy with six facilities in Germany. It produces high-precision forged and machined components for automotive and industrial applications.

Iochpe-Maxion SA, a world leader in automotive wheels production and a leading producer of automotive structural components in the Americas, has appointed Pieter Klinkers, the current Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Maxion Wheels, as President and CEO of Iochpe-Maxion SA with effect from 16 April 2025.

Klinkers replaces Marcos Oliveira, who will step down at the end of his term in line with the senior leadership succession plan. The Iochpe-Maxion Board of Directors has nominated Oliveira to be a member of the slate for the Board of Directors election at the upcoming regular general shareholders' meeting, which is also set for 16 April 2025.

Over the course of more than 30 years, Klinkers has built a prestigious career in the automotive sector. After a 10-year stint at Michelin, he joined Hayes Lemmerz Inc in 2005, which was later purchased by Iochpe-Maxion. He has been in charge of the company's worldwide wheels division since 2015. Klinkers will be replaced as CEO of Maxion Wheels by Mark Gerardts. Since joining the firm in 2015, Gerardts has held a number of positions with progressively more responsibility, most recently serving as the Business Unit President for Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).

Tier 1 supplier Jay Bharat Maruti (JBML) has announced it has further acquired 10 percent stake from its joint venture partner Ogihara Thailand Co.

The move will see JBM hike its stake from 39 percent to 49 percent in JBM Ogihara Die-Tech (JODT), which is a key supplier of press stamping dies, especially for high-tensile and critical Body In White (BIW) dies.

In FY2024, the company reported a turnover of INR 489.65 million.

At present, JODT is a key supplier for high-tensile and critical BIW dies to JBM. The technology was adopted as part of its association with Ogihara, and the move to hike its stake in the JV will further enhance JBM’s supply to Maruti Suzuki India, a leading passenger vehicle manufacturer in the country and a key client for the brand.

Furthermore, JBM has announced that its technology agreement with OTC and its name in the company will continue for almost two years.

German mechatronics specialist Marquardt has inaugurated its new plant in Talegaon in Pune, Maharashtra, which replaces its existing production facility near Mumbai.

The new facility is equipped with in-house electronics production and logistics to support Marquardt’s customers for complete mechatronic solutions, including drive authorisation systems, gear selector switches and battery management systems (BMS) for electric vehicles.

With a total investment of INR 1.8 billion towards the new plant, the facility will improve supply chain, response time for its customers. The company expects to create 500 new jobs in the next five years.

Bjorn Twiehaus, Chief Executive Officer, Marquardt Group, said, “India is an important growth market for Marquardt with great potential. We work closely with leading vehicle manufacturers here and utilise the innovative strength and expertise of our Indian team. With the opening of the plant in Talegaon, we are continuing our success story in India and strengthening our position as a leading supplier of mechatronic systems for the mobility of the future."

Vishal Narvekar, General Manager, Marquardt India, added, "The inauguration of our new facility in Talegaon marks a significant milestone for Marquardt in India. Our strong and long-standing relationships with customers in the Indian automotive industry have been instrumental in our growth. With this expansion, we reaffirm our commitment to delivering world-class mechatronic solutions tailored to the needs of our local partners. Additionally, this facility underscores our contribution to the 'Make in India' initiative by enhancing local production, fostering innovation, and creating new employment opportunities."

The new facility will complement and work in sync with the company’s development centre which has already been active for the last decade. With around 450 employees the development centre supports Marquadt’s domestic & global customers, and is a key part of the company’s innovation network.

Dr. Harald Marquardt, Shareholder and Board Member, Marquadt, added, "Our team in India is a cornerstone of our global success. The high level of innovation, efficiency and commitment of our Indian experts are groundbreaking. With this new plant, we are underlining our long-term commitment to our customers in India and worldwide."