ZF said it had received "a customer order" for eight-speed automatic transmissions "with a double-digit billion value".

The contract would run for "several years".

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

The latest version of the transmission – in production since 2009 – now has an integrated electric drive and includes a hybrid variant.  

Production starts in 2022 in Saarbruecken, the lead production facility. US and China output will follow.

ZF told a results press conference the deal was with BMW which builds vehicles in the same countries as ZF will make this gearbox.

"This business win is the largest single order in the history of ZF," said CEO Wolf-Henning Scheider.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

"When it comes to the electrification of passenger cars, in addition to pure electric drives, it confirms our strategy to focus on plug-in hybrids as an every-day solution and to develop attractive products in these areas."

ZF said: "The order was based on the fact that the customer sees our technology as a sustainable drive solution for its vehicles which supports them in achieving CO2 targets. In addition, the possibility to easily change from one transmission variant to another allows our customer the flexibility to react to market requirements."

"Alongside the significant CO2 savings potential, this high degree of flexibility is resulting in strong interest in our transmission. We are in very promising discussions with other customers."