ZF presents new solutions at Automechanika Frankfurt 2026

ZF will present new global solutions at Automechanika Frankfurt 2026, demonstrating how close partnerships, a broad technology portfolio, and a connected ecosystem help its customers respond to rapid market transformations. The company will showcase innovations developed to support its aftermarket partners in their day-to-day operations, preparing them for current and future challenges. 

ZF will present new global solutions at Automechanika Frankfurt 2026, demonstrating how close partnerships, a broad technology portfolio, and a connected ecosystem help its customers respond to rapid market transformations. The company will showcase innovations developed to support its aftermarket partners in their day-to-day operations, preparing them for current and future challenges.

During the trade fair, ZF Aftermarket will highlight two important new products aimed at workshops: the new AI-powered Voice Agent integrated into ZF [pro]Manager and the new High Voltage Battery Training Program for members of the ZF [pro]Tech network. The company will also present innovations in braking systems, including TRW's new sustainable brake fluid.

"Maximizing uptime is at the heart of our mission to make seamless mobility a reality. This means helping our customers work more efficiently, make faster decisions, and prepare for the technologies that are coming to the aftermarket," says Philippe Colpron, Global Head of ZF Aftermarket. "At Automechanika, we will show how ZF Aftermarket combines technical expertise, digital services, and a solid product portfolio to generate concrete value for our partners, who keep mobility in motion," he adds.

ZF's AI-powered voice agent enables 24/7 service at the workshop reception

One of the main highlights of ZF Aftermarket at Automechanika Frankfurt 2026 will be the new AI-powered Voice Agent integrated into ZF [pro]Manager, which transforms the company's digital workshop management solution into a virtual receptionist.

As digitalization redefines customer relationships and daily workshop operations, the AI-powered Voice Agent incorporates real-time, natural language-based telephone interaction into ZF [pro]Manager. The solution is also competing in the AI ​​Solutions & Digitalization category of the Automechanika Innovation Awards 2026.

Unlike a chatbot or a conventional automated telephone service system, the AI ​​Voice Agent enables natural voice conversation. Using automatic speech recognition and natural language understanding technologies, the solution interprets customer requests, including automotive industry-specific terminology such as vehicle brands, models, and service types.

Integrated with ZF [pro]Manager's real-time scheduling data, the system checks workshop availability and manages appointments directly within the digital workflow. For workshops, the benefits are clear: fewer missed calls, reduced workload for customer service teams, and improved customer reception, even outside of business hours.

The Voice Agent instantly answers incoming calls, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and automatically registers new customers during the call itself in ZF [pro]Manager, recording contact information and vehicle data in a structured way. 

Strengthening skills in electromobility with the new battery training program

ZF Aftermarket will also present its new High Voltage Battery Insights Training Program, which is now part of the ZF [pro]Tech workshop training portfolio. Combining practical training and theoretical knowledge, the program helps workshops develop advanced skills in high voltage battery technology and related components.

The training supports workshops in developing expertise in electric propulsion systems (e-Power), increasing safety when working with high-voltage batteries, and understanding the most common failures and challenges related to repairing these systems. By developing these skills, workshops can strengthen their position in the growing electromobility service market and offer even more qualified support to customers in more complex repairs.

“Workshops continue to face an increasing level of transformation, driven by the growing complexity of vehicles and customer expectations for faster and more transparent service,” adds Philippe Colpron. “Our role is to make this transformation easier to manage. By combining digital tools, technical training, diagnostics, and knowledge from original equipment (OE), we help our partners improve their performance and deliver reliable service every day,” he explains.

Introducing sustainable innovations in braking systems 

ZF Aftermarket will also highlight the breadth of its technology portfolio at Automechanika, with a special focus on braking systems. The company will present TRW DOT 4 Brake Fluid ESP Recycled, a sustainable alternative to conventional brake fluid.

ZF Aftermarket is the first company to launch this brake fluid on the market, developed to meet the highest quality and safety standards, providing long-lasting braking performance. The fluid contains 60% post-consumer recycled material — as calculated by ISO 14021. This launch reflects the growing demand from workshops, distributors, and drivers for more sustainable replacement solutions.