At last week’s Busworld show in Brussels, ZF launched a service to help bus and coach OEMs comply with international standards for automotive software updates.

The United Nations has introduced the ECE/R156 regulation, which requires OEMs to implement a software update management system (SUMS). This regulation aims to ensure safe and secure software updates are maintained throughout a vehicle’s entire lifecycle.

ZF’s SUMS service suite for bus and coach OEMs is a modular platform that helps OEMs avoid the need to develop specialised in-house capabilities while ensuring secure, compliant and up-to-date software management. Following the introduction of the suite to trailer manufacturers, ZF’s commercial vehicle division recognised a broader demand across the commercial vehicle sector and is now extending the offering to bus manufacturers.

“The SUMS service suite provides bus manufacturers with a practical and flexible option for managing software updates in line with evolving regulatory standards,” said Frank Burkhart, vice president at ZF. “As a leading provider of technologies for bus and coach, ZF continues to support the industry in its transition towards digitalisation and the software-defined commercial vehicle. Our deep industry knowledge, customer intimacy and expertise in digital enables us to deliver a modular 360-degree package that not only supports compliance but also helps OEMs build a solid foundation for secure and efficient software lifecycle management.”

Tailored for bus manufacturers, the suite consists of four modular elements. These include ZF’s ISO 24089-certified Scalar software manager, which manages, records and verifies software and hardware versions of any UN/ECE R156 relevant devices. The platform facilitates regular audits and certification renewals and documents the impact of software updates on type approvals and regulations.

By integrating seamlessly with ZF Pro Diagnostics – a software platform for diagnosing and configuring ZF devices – automated software status checks, safe updates and required documentation in the workshop are enabled, a factor in ensuring UN/ECE R156 compliance in the field.

Consulting services to help OEMs navigate UN/ECE R156 complexities are also included in the suite, as well as a handbook, templates and checklists that help clarify certification requirements. The suite also includes training programmes focusing on UN/ECE R156 provided through ZF Pro Academy.

ZF (www.zf.com) has already met ISO 24089 standards for software update engineering, delivering safe and legally compliant options. ZF’s commercial vehicle division is one of the first tier-one suppliers in the commercial vehicle industry to pass the audits required for ISO 24089 certification.