ZF, a renowned parts supplier, is revolutionizing chassis tuning for electric vehicles (EVs) with its innovative cubiX Tuner software. This cutting-edge software simplifies the process of adjusting multiple actuators in an EV by allowing engineers to manipulate settings through user-friendly sliders on a screen. This intuitive approach to chassis tuning is reminiscent of playing a video game, where adjustments can be made effortlessly with just a few clicks.
The cubiX Tuner software enables seamless communication with various chassis actuators, including the brake-by-wire system, electric steering rack, and electrically actuated dampers. By streamlining the calibration process for these components, ZF aims to significantly reduce the development time of new electric car models. This efficiency is crucial in the rapidly evolving automotive industry, where time-to-market is a critical factor in staying competitive.
One of the key advantages of ZF’s software is its compatibility with software-defined vehicles, allowing automakers to customize chassis settings to reflect their brand identity. For instance, a lesser-known automaker could utilize ZF’s software to tailor CATL’s skateboard chassis to align with its unique characteristics. This flexibility empowers automakers to differentiate their EV offerings in a crowded marketplace.
André Engelke, Head of the Vehicle Motion Control System House at ZF, emphasizes the shift in defining a car’s character from its engine to its software in the age of electrification. The cubiX Tuner software enables engineers to fine-tune the steering angle, cornering behavior, and other parameters with precision. The tool generates a tuning map that is directly uploaded to the vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU), ensuring seamless integration of the adjustments.
Furthermore, the software offers an “Expert Mode” for advanced tuning capabilities, allowing engineers to delve deeper into optimizing the chassis setup. Additionally, ZF provides a virtual environment for testing calibrations in a simulation before implementing the settings in a physical vehicle. This simulation capability streamlines the testing process and facilitates before-and-after comparisons without the need for extensive track testing.
In conclusion, ZF’s cubiX Tuner software represents a groundbreaking approach to chassis tuning for EVs, offering unprecedented ease of use and customization options for automakers. By leveraging this innovative software, manufacturers can accelerate the development of new electric car models and enhance the driving experience for customers. The future of electric vehicle tuning is here, and ZF is at the forefront of this transformative technology.