Press release, 19 December 2025
German automotive supplier ZF has unveiled a breakthrough software-driven technology called Active Noise Reduction (ANR) that aims to significantly reduce tyre- and chassis-borne noise inside vehicle cabins — and it does so without the need for extra acoustic hardware. The announcement is being made ahead of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026 in Las Vegas, where ZF will demonstrate how its latest innovation is poised to enhance comfort across a broad range of vehicle types, from mainstream passenger cars to commercial platforms.
At the heart of this innovation is a smart integration of sensors, software, and existing suspension hardware that collectively act to suppress unwanted noise that travels through the chassis — a persistent challenge especially as powertrain systems become quieter in electric and hybrid vehicles. Instead of relying on traditional acoustic insulation materials, microphones, or speaker-based noise cancellation systems, ZF’s Active Noise Reduction uses pure software algorithms to interpret vibration data and counteract it at the source.
The system operates by tapping into ZF’s Smart Chassis Sensor, which includes an integrated accelerometer that continuously monitors vibrations transmitted from tyres into the vehicle body via control arms, dampers, and other chassis components. These vibration signals — including characteristic “cavity noise” typically around 200 Hz — are analysed by a proprietary algorithm that identifies the patterns associated with tyre-generated acoustic disturbances. Once identified, the software generates counter-signals through ZF’s cubiX software platform and transmits them to the valves of semi-active Continuous Damping Control (CDC) dampers. These dampers then make micro-adjustments that actively counter the unwanted noise while maintaining suspension performance and ride comfort.
Initial performance figures shared by ZF indicate that the Active Noise Reduction software can already achieve noise reductions of more than 3 dB, which is perceptible to vehicle occupants and can make a noticeable difference in overall cabin serenity. Looking ahead, further refinements could push this reduction up to 10 dB, creating an acoustic environment previously attainable primarily in premium-segment vehicles. Because the solution leverages existing suspension architecture and only requires software updates, it could potentially be adapted across a wide range of vehicle models, including those in more affordable segments where advanced acoustic comfort features have historically been limited by cost and hardware requirements.
This innovation is a key component of ZF’s broader “Chassis 2.0” strategy, which seeks to elevate traditional mechanical chassis systems into the era of software-defined vehicles. Chassis 2.0 integrates intelligent, networkable actuators with scalable electrical and electronic architectures, enabling new dynamic functions to be unlocked purely through software — much like how vehicles are increasingly receiving over-the-air updates for infotainment or driver assistance systems. Within this vision, Active Noise Reduction represents a significant step toward smarter, more responsive chassis systems that enhance both comfort and vehicle dynamics without additional hardware complexity.
Dr. Peter Holdmann, ZF Board member and head of the Chassis Solutions division, has emphasized that this software-centric approach not only improves comfort but also provides OEMs with a competitive edge by delivering premium acoustic experiences at lower cost and complexity. With series production of the Active Noise Reduction system scheduled to begin in 2028, ZF anticipates strong interest from manufacturers seeking to differentiate their vehicles through advanced comfort features while aligning with broader industry trends toward electrification and software-led innovation.
In addition to tyre noise suppression, ZF envisions extending its software control approach to other vehicle actuators in the future — including functions like active brake noise reduction and even next-generation active suspension systems. As vehicles continue to evolve toward fully software-defined architectures, solutions like Active Noise Reduction illustrate how traditional automotive components can be reinvented with intelligent algorithms and real-time control to deliver tangible benefits for drivers and passengers alike.
