Driving Value Together: Share Your Cost-Optimization Ideas with ZF LIFETEC
At ZF LIFETEC, innovation and efficiency are core to how we create value for our customers and strengthen our partnerships across the supply base. Through our Value Analysis / Value Engineering (VA/VE) initiative, we invite our trusted suppliers to collaborate with us by sharing ideas that reduce cost while fully preserving the safety, performance, and quality standards expected of ZF LIFETEC products.
What Is VA/VE?
VA/VE is a structured, data-driven methodology used to evaluate product designs, materials, and manufacturing processes to identify cost-saving opportunities—without compromising functionality, compliance, or product integrity. By working closely with our suppliers, we aim to optimize value across the entire product lifecycle and drive competitive advantage.
What Types of Ideas We’re Looking For
We welcome supplier proposals that deliver clear, measurable cost reductions, including concepts such as:
- Using alternative materials with equivalent performance
- Simplifying component designs or production steps
- Improving packaging, logistics, or supply-chain routing
- Reducing assembly or inspection time
- Standardizing components across platforms
Only ideas that demonstrate a tangible, quantifiable cost saving are considered in scope.
What Is Out of Scope
To maintain focus, we do not evaluate:
- Quality or reliability improvements that do not reduce cost
- New product features or enhancements unrelated to cost savings
- General process improvements without financial impact
How to Submit an Idea
All proposals must be submitted using the data fields below. Please provide a clear description of your idea, expected cost impact, supporting data, and all required fields to ensure a complete and timely review.
Why Participate?
Contributing to ZF LIFETEC’s VA/VE program helps us create smarter, more efficient solutions for the mobility and safety systems of the future. Your ideas drive real savings, strengthen long-term collaboration, and support shared success across the value chain.