Shanghai (ZXZC)- On September 18, Geely's Farizon New Energy Commercial Vehicle Group ("Farizon Auto") and ZF signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the IAA TRANSPORTATION 2024 in Hannover, Germany, marking a new chapter in their growing strategic partnership.

This agreement builds on the initial strategic cooperation deal signed in late June this year, where both companies combined Farizon's expertise in methanol-hydrogen and electric technologies for commercial vehicles with ZF's status as a leading supplier in the commercial vehicle sector. The aim is to create globally competitive new energy commercial vehicles that leverage the strengths of both parties.

Photo credit: Farizon Auto

The latest MoU is designed to accelerate the industrialization of innovative technologies and deepen their integration into vehicle manufacturing. The collaboration now extends to system-based, scenario-driven solutions, including energy-efficient systems built around electric drive systems, transmissions, and chassis products, which will enhance vehicle efficiency while ensuring lightweight designs. Additionally, safety solutions for trailers and main vehicles, integrating advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), braking, suspension, and steering, will ensure stable and reliable transport operations. The two companies will also roll out intelligent solutions that will be iteratively upgraded to achieve interconnected and coordinated technologies, propelling commercial vehicles toward higher levels of intelligent driving and smart connectivity.

In the transition toward new energy vehicles (NEVs), methanol-hydrogen electric technology has emerged as a promising path due to its environmental friendliness, cost-effectiveness, and broad adaptability. Already deployed across various transportation sectors, this technology is now in large-scale operation. Farizon Auto, as Geely's sole new energy commercial vehicle brand, leads the way in this field with a complete product lineup including heavy trucks, light trucks, micro trucks, light commercial vehicles (LCVs), and buses.

Farizon Auto's proprietary "methanol-hydrogen + electric" technology enables full-stack self-development of methanol-hydrogen electric powertrains. This innovative approach, validated by the market for its economic, practical, and reliable performance, offers an alternative to traditional hydrogen fuel cells. Methanol, as a liquid hydrogen substitute, powers electric vehicles with a more convenient and cost-effective charging solution, overcoming some of the limitations of pure electric and hydrogen fuel systems.

As the adoption of new energy heavy trucks expands into diverse applications, ZF is playing a critical role by providing tailored solutions for various energy types. The company is actively promoting the widespread use of methanol-hydrogen and other alternative energy technologies in the commercial vehicle industry.

This collaboration goes beyond the development and application of new energy solutions, extending to the creation and optimization of the entire methanol-hydrogen ecosystem. Farizon Auto and ZF will explore further cooperation in this space, working together to accelerate the progress and growth of the new energy vehicle industry.