ZF Australia is accelerating growth across passenger car, commercial vehicle, bus, and marine markets, driven by new technologies, streamlined operations, and a leadership team with a strong customer focus.
From its beginnings in Seven Hills, Sydney in 1987, ZF has grown into a market leader that supports workshops, fleets, and operators with high-quality components and cutting-edge systems. Today, the business is shaping the future of mobility in Oceania with major product launches, operational improvements, and expanded aftermarket solutions.
Passenger Car Growth and Leadership
ZF’s passenger car business is experiencing strong momentum, highlighted by the appointment of Daniel Kroon as Head of Sales – Passenger Car. Kroon, who joined the company in 2017, now sits on the Leadership Team.
“Dan’s passion, care factor, and strong customer focus reflect the values of our business and the ZF organisation globally,” said John Wall, Managing Director, ZF Australia. “His appointment ensures the voice of our passenger car customers is represented at a strategic level.”
ZF’s aftermarket portfolio, under the LEMFÖRDER, SACHS, and TRW brands, is being expanded to support internal combustion, hybrid, and electric vehicles. The offering includes OE-quality steering and suspension components, shock absorbers, clutches, brake pads, and discs.
To improve customer service, ZF has streamlined delivery processes, increased stock availability, and introduced a no-fault guarantee. Workshops are also benefitting from greater access to training and technical resources to help them adapt to changing vehicle technologies.
Commercial Vehicle Achievements
ZF continues to strengthen its position in the commercial vehicle sector with several major milestones:
- The world’s first installation of its next-generation Trailer Electronic Braking System (iEBS) was completed by an Australian trailer manufacturer.
- 100,000 Trailer EBS units have now been sold across Australia and New Zealand.
- More than 150 installations of the ZF Bus Connect telematics system, including Custom Denning’s locally built Element 2 electric city bus featuring ZF driveline and e-motor technologies.
- Expansion of the CorExpedia remanufacturing program, which allows WABCO distributors to supply remanufactured components, cutting costs and improving sustainability.
These developments highlight ZF’s role in helping transport operators improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
Marine Market Expansion
ZF is also growing its marine business, recently securing new orders for its advanced TotalCommand propulsion control system. Designed to work alongside ZF transmissions, TotalCommand provides adaptive gear engagement, improved clutch response, and smoother operation, giving captains greater precision and control.
The company’s complete systems approach has made ZF a preferred choice for fleet operators in the Oceania region.
Investing in People and Partnerships
ZF’s growth is underpinned by its people. Alongside Kroon’s appointment, Tara Boga has been named Customer Service Manager, ensuring customer feedback is represented at the highest level, while Robyn Thatcher oversees inventory and supply chain operations.
In New Zealand, Nico Eksteen has joined as Regional Sales & Technical Support Executive, strengthening ZF’s regional presence. The company also marked 35-year milestones for long-serving employees Shane Trenbath and Matthew Greliche, recognising their long-term contributions.
“Much of this momentum is being driven by a passionate and highly experienced Leadership Team,” Wall said. “Together, they bring deep technical knowledge, a strong customer focus and a shared commitment to delivering results.”
Looking Ahead
In 2025, ZF will launch ZF [pro]Diagnostics, a multi-brand, multi-system diagnostic solution for passenger cars and commercial vehicles. Featuring ZF MultiScan software, it supports OE security protocols and offers flexible pricing. Independent workshops, fleets, and tyre centres will gain new tools to boost efficiency and reduce downtime.
“With faster distribution, renewed focus on passenger cars, and major milestones across all sectors, ZF is in a strong position to drive the future of mobility in Oceania,” Wall said.
