Strategic Expansion and Industrial Collaboration
ZF Lifetec, a leading German company specializing in passive vehicle safety and steering wheel manufacturing, has officially opened a new factory within Morocco’s Tanger Med industrial platform. This state-of-the-art facility is dedicated to the production of advanced steering systems for vehicles, marking a significant step in the company's global expansion strategy.
The newly established plant spans 8,000 square meters and represents a key milestone in ZF Lifetec’s efforts to strengthen its presence at the intersection of Europe and Africa. Production has already commenced, with approximately 300 employees currently working at the site. The company highlighted that this move reinforces its position as a major player in the field of passive safety systems and aligns with its broader strategy of being closer to key markets and clients.
This new facility is part of a vibrant ecosystem that includes over 160 tier-1, tier-2, and tier-3 suppliers operating within Tanger Automotive City, Morocco’s premier automotive hub. It now becomes the 51st global location for ZF Lifetec, with its output serving both local and European markets.
A Strategic Partnership
The inauguration ceremony brought together representatives from Tanger Med, public authorities, and senior executives from ZF Lifetec, underscoring a strong collaboration between industrial and institutional stakeholders. Rudolf Stark, CEO of ZF Lifetec, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainability by aiming to shorten supply chains and produce closer to its markets. He also noted that this approach helps reduce risks associated with global supply chain disruptions.
Stark praised Morocco for its advanced infrastructure, skilled workforce, and strategic proximity to customers, calling it a long-term investment. He further explained that the steering wheel serves as the tangible interface between the driver and the vehicle, requiring precision craftsmanship combined with cutting-edge technology. According to him, Morocco offers both these essential elements.
Ahmed Bennis, Managing Director of Tanger Med Zones (TMZ), expressed that ZF Lifetec’s arrival strengthens the platform’s goal of building long-term partnerships with leading global automotive suppliers. He added that the Moroccan automotive ecosystem is driven by local integration, efficient logistics, and cost competitiveness—factors that support a forward-looking industry.
Strategic Location and Regional Integration
Situated at the heart of Tanger Med’s industrial platform, the plant benefits from direct access to Africa’s leading port complex and an established, competitive industrial network. This strategic location allows for seamless connectivity and logistical efficiency, supporting the company’s operations and growth.
The new facility also aligns with ZF Lifetec’s regional strategy, creating a production triangle with its facilities in O Porriño (Spain) and Vila Nova (Portugal). This consolidation enhances the group’s footprint in the automotive sector and supports its global operations.
As of the end of 2024, Tanger Med’s 3,000-hectare industrial platform hosts more than 1,400 companies, generating nearly 130,000 jobs and a combined business volume of $17.22 billion across key sectors such as automotive, aerospace, logistics, textiles, and trade. This thriving environment continues to attract global investors looking to tap into the region’s economic potential.
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