ZF is using a new modular rear axle concept to demonstrate the benefits of a modular system architecture. The company claims this solution enables a vehicle with a twist beam axle or link SLA rear axle to be converted to a steerable rear axle concept with just a few modifications to the body.
This is based on a non-driven basic axle in which an electric axle drive or a conventional rear axle drive as well as the AKC rear axle steering can be integrated, depending on customer requirements. So vehicle manufacturers can respond flexibly to various market requirements with just one body variant, claims ZF
The basic axle entails a modular further development of a Semi-Trailing Arm Rear Suspension (mSTARS) and can be combined with the electric drive module positioned centrally on the axle.