Auto parts supplier ZF Friedrichshafen AG is developing its own technology for self-driving vehicles.
With an investment of 12 billion euros ($14 billion) over the next five years on autonomous vehicle technology, the German company’s project will include developing a battery-powered self-driving delivery van. Navigating city centers, identifying traffic lights and maintaining lanes even in absence of markings on street are some of the features of ZF’s autonomous van, as mentioned by the company. “Our concept vehicle will be ready for series production during the next two years,” Chief Executive Officer Wolf-Henning Scheider said. “We’re in concrete discussions with several customers.” This could potentially add to the competition for Volkswagen’s Crafter or Ford’s Transit van.