ZF introduces new repair kits for electric drivetrains

ZF Aftermarket is expanding its range of repair kits for electric and hybrid vehicles. These are designed to enable workshops to repair individual components of the electrified drivetrain.

In the coming weeks, ZF plans to introduce more than 100 variants of repair kits for electric axle drives. These kits bundle the components required for specific repairs. ZF classifies the offering under its so-called Maintain-Repair-Replace strategy. The remanufacturing of parts to OE quality also plays a key role: if a repair is not technically or economically feasible, ZF offers remanufactured replacement components as an alternative.

Specifically, the programme includes a repair kit with a rotor and stator for second-generation ZF hybrid modules based on the 8HP transmission. For the fourth generation of the 8HP, remanufactured mechatronics and a repair kit for the inverter are added. Another kit enables the replacement of bearing components in the reduction gears of electric drive units. ZF has not yet specified which vehicles the individual repair kits cover or the prices at which they will be offered.

With these repair solutions, ZF is also responding to the growing fleet of electric vehicles, which are increasingly relevant to the independent aftermarket. According to the company, its spare parts programme already covers around 92 per cent of the European fleet of the 20 most widespread electric car models. However, the company does not disclose which models or the calculation basis behind this figure. The portfolio includes, in addition to drivetrain components, parts for brakes, steering, chassis and damping, as well as operating fluids for electric drivetrains.

ZF expands aftermarket business for electric cars

In the future, ZF also intends to give greater consideration to vehicles from Chinese brands. By the first quarter of 2027, up to 200 corresponding references are to be available in the parts catalogue in Europe. By the end of 2027, the supplier aims to cover ten of the most popular models from Chinese manufacturers, thereby meeting around 30 per cent of the corresponding workshop demand, according to its own data. ZF has not yet named specific models.

The firm’s expansion of its aftermarket offering comes against the backdrop of the ongoing restructuring of ZF’s electric drivetrain division. In May, the supplier decided, following a Make or Buy review, to continue developing and producing electric motors and inverters in-house. Division E is operating at lower capacity than originally expected and is undergoing a comprehensive workforce reduction. The decision to manufacture in-house is contingent on significantly improved cost structures.