German technology company ZF is using perception sensing to help buses approach their stops.

Due to be presented at IAA Transportation (www.iaa-transportation.com) in Hanover in September, City Bus Assist is a perception-sensor-based offering for automated steering assistance and coordinated kneeling at bus stops. It demonstrates how the smart integration of software across chassis technologies and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) helps bus OEMs and public transport operators improve safety, efficiency and total cost of ownership.

As a bus approaches its next stop, automated steering assistance guides the vehicle precisely along the kerb. The suspension automatically lowers smoothly to enable step-free access. Inside, passengers remain comfortable as the bus decelerates in a controlled and predictable manner.

“In complex urban environments, city buses must meet multiple demands at the same time: protecting road users and passengers, ensuring a smooth ride even during stop-and-go city traffic, while also continuing to work reliably,” said Ivan Brajdic, head of R&D at ZF’s commercial vehicle division. “We create connected system intelligence across ADAS, chassis control systems and software functions to support drivers in critical situations while improving comfort and accessibility for passengers and enabling more efficient fleet operation.”

City Bus Assist is a proof of concept that supports drivers during bus stop approaches by automating steering assistance with integrated kneeling control. The system helps guide the vehicle precisely to the kerb while reducing lateral tyre scrub. Integrated suspension control optimises kneeling to reduce the vertical entry gap for barrier-free boarding.

Also on show will be City Bus CMS (collision mitigation system), a dedicated safety system tailored for city buses that actively detects vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians and can initiate braking to mitigate or avoid collisions, contributing to improved safety for standing passengers and other road users. The system builds on ZF’s ADAS portfolio, including the OnGuardMax platform, designed to meet evolving safety requirements and support higher levels of driver assistance. City Bus CMS is already in use by bus OEMs.

CDC Skyhook is a software-based damping algorithm that continuously adapts damper performance in real time. It stabilises vehicle movements, enhancing ride comfort for passengers and improving overall vehicle dynamics.

And E-Comp Scroll is a low-noise, oil-free electric air compressor that supports braking and suspension systems. Its reduced noise and vibration improve comfort, especially in electric buses, while lowering maintenance requirements.

With some 153,000 employees worldwide, ZF (www.zf.com) reported sales of €38.8bn in 2025. The company operates 162 production locations in 29 countries.