ZF to Showcase Software-Based Chassis System for Tyre Noise Reduction at CES 2026

Tyre noise is a significant disruption in quieter vehicles, prompting ZF to introduce the Active Noise Reduction function at CES 2026. This software-based system minimizes vibrations from tyres transmitted through chassis components without needing extra insulation. The technology is designed for various vehicle segments and aligns with ZF's broader Chassis 2.0 strategy, with production expected to start in 2028.

ZF to Showcase Software-Based Chassis System for Tyre Noise Reduction at CES 2026

Tyre noise remains a key source of disturbance inside vehicle cabins, particularly as powertrains become quieter. ZF is scheduled to showcase a new software-based chassis function, called Active Noise Reduction, at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026, which will take place from January 6 to 9.

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The function is designed to reduce vibrations that travel from the tyres into the vehicle structure through chassis components such as control arms and dampers. The system does not rely on additional insulation materials or acoustic hardware.

How the Technology Is Designed to Work

The Active Noise Reduction function will use ZF’s Smart Chassis Sensor, which includes an integrated acceleration sensor to measure vibrations transmitted from the tyres to the chassis. These signals are processed by a software algorithm that is designed to identify characteristic noise patterns, including tyre cavity noise, typically occurring around 200 Hz.
Based on this analysis, the software will generate counter-signals via ZF’s cubiX control software. These signals will be applied through the valves of semi-active CDC (Continuous Damping Control) dampers, enabling micro-adjustments that are intended to reduce noise transmission without affecting suspension performance.

Expected Noise Reduction Levels

ZF has stated that the current development stage of the software is expected to achieve in-cabin noise reductions of more than 3 decibels. Future iterations of the system are projected to reach reductions of up to 10 decibels.

Application Across Vehicle Segments

The company has indicated that the system is being developed to suit a wide range of vehicles, including lower-priced segments where advanced acoustic solutions are less common. By using existing semi-active dampers, the technology could be deployed without significant cost increases.
ZF supplies approximately 40 percent of semi-active dampers globally, which could support wider adoption of the software function as vehicles move toward software-defined architectures.

Integration With Chassis 2.0 Strategy

Active Noise Reduction forms part of ZF’s Chassis 2.0 strategy, which focuses on enabling new vehicle functions through software and connected actuators. The approach integrates braking, steering, and damping systems within a scalable electronic architecture.
ZF has said that series production of the Active Noise Reduction software is planned to begin in 2028. The company is also evaluating the potential use of similar software-based noise control functions for other components, including braking systems and fully active suspension technologies.
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