ZF LIFETEC Breaks Ground on Airbag Inflator Capacity Expansion and R&D Center Project at Xi’an Base
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- ZF LIFETEC’s Xi’an base, officially known as ZF Dongfang Automotive Safety Technology (Xi’an) Co., Ltd., recently held a groundbreaking ceremony for its airbag inflator capacity expansion and R&D center project. The initiative aims to enhance existing inflator production lines and establish a comprehensive inflator R&D laboratory, with the Xi’an facility set to become ZF LIFETEC’s largest inflator production base in the Asia-Pacific region.
Photo credit: ZF LIFETEC
The Xi’an base of ZF LIFETEC, established in 2010, focuses on the R&D, production, and sales of hybrid inflators, catering to major vehicle manufacturers globally. The capacity expansion is crucial to meet increasing market demand and maintain production efficiency.
ZF LIFETEC’s agreement with Xi’an Economic and Technological Development Zone paved the way for the construction of the inflator capacity expansion and R&D center project in Jingwei Industrial Park. The project is expected to achieve full capacity and annual production of several million inflators and hood lifters by 2025.
The R&D center will leverage ZF LIFETEC’s expertise in passive safety technology, focusing on developing the next generation of hybrid inflators. Dr. Nick Song, Vice President of ZF LIFETEC Asia Pacific, highlighted the close collaboration between the new core factory, R&D center, and airbag manufacturing facilities to serve prominent domestic and international automakers.
Following its spin-off from ZF in March 2023, ZF LIFETEC has been focusing on innovation and expansion. The new Asia-Pacific headquarters in Jiading, Shanghai, and construction projects in Weihai and Wuhan demonstrate the company’s commitment to growth and operational efficiency.
In terms of R&D innovation, ZF LIFETEC has introduced advanced passive safety products such as the smart seat belt, seat-integrated ACR8.S belt retractor, and retractable steering wheel, showcasing its dedication to enhancing automotive safety standards.
