New projects will be tackled more decisively – and unproductive ones terminated more quickly. This sums up the preliminary figures for 2025 from the technology group ZF Friedrichshafen on Lake Constance. As  part of the restructuring of its electric drive systems division, several projects are to be terminated prematurely.

Which companies these are has not yet been specified. They are said to be those "that  are not achieving the expected profitability due to the slower ramp-up of e-mobility".  According to management, this should allow the company to reduce its debt earlier than  initially planned.

Numerous factors

Based on preliminary figures, the company exceeded its targets for operating profit and cash flow in fiscal year 2025. Adjusted free cash flow is expected to exceed one billion euros; the adjusted EBIT margin significantly above 4.0 percent.

Success is what matters. Photo: ZF

when presenting its  at more than  38 billion euros

While individual locations such as Saarbrücken now fear further staff reductions, ZF CEO Mathias Miedreich hopes that "the increased operational performance and the faster-than-  planned reduction in debt give cause for confidence".

No reason for complacency

"Our measures to realign  ZF are taking effect. However, this is no reason for complacency, but rather an important interim step and an incentive to consistently continue on our course. This upward path will continue to require our full strength and concentration."

“The special burden in the area of ​​e-mobility (…) frees us from legacy burdens and is the basis for new scope for action and sustainably improved profitability in the coming years,” said ZFCFO Michael Frick.

Corporate headquarters

ZF will present its annual figures at its balance sheet press conference on Thursday, March 19, 2026. ZF primarily supplies automotive manufacturers, mobility providers, and emerging companies in the transport and mobility sector. In addition to its automotive divisions for passenger cars and commercial vehicles, ZF serves market segments such as construction and agricultural machinery, wind power, shipping, rail technology, and testing systems.
www.zf.com