HDLE is an engineering services company with focus on software for driver assistance, based in Amtzell (Germany). The software developers team acquired from HDLE with a headcount of 50 will be integrated into ZF’s corporate R&D activities, the company announced. The acquisition incudes a number of test vehicles along and related IP. According to ZF’s F&E board member Stefan Sommer, the team has significant experience in developing driver assistance systems for passenger cars and commercial vehicles.
In particular, the transaction is intended to strengthen the surround view technology where cameras monitor the surroundings of the vehicle. The images are then stitched together, offering a virtual top-view image displayed on a screen. This enables drivers to detect potentially hazardous situations earlier; in particular bicycles and pedestrians in the blind spot can be registered. In addition, the technology supports drivers when backing up.
As recently as May 15, ZF has completed the acquisition of TRW automotive, one of the world’s most renowned automotive electronics suppliers. The former TRW has been integrated into the ZF group as “Active and Passive Safety Division.”
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