Samsung's Harman to Buy ZF Group's ADAS Unit for €1.5 Billion

• The acquisition includes critical ADAS technologies like front-facing vehicle cameras and controllers, complementing Harman's existing audio business to create integrated in-car platforms
• Samsung projects the ADAS and vehicle controller market to grow from 62.6 trillion won ($42.2B) in 2025 to 97.4 trillion won ($65.6B) by 2030
• This marks Samsung's second major acquisition this year following the FlaktGroup cooling systems purchase, as ZF sheds assets amid 14,000 job cuts and high debt burden

Samsung's Harman Acquires ZF's ADAS Unit for €1.5 Billion

Samsung Electronics announced a €1.5 billion ($1.77 billion) acquisition of ZF Friedrichshafen's Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) unit through its subsidiary Harman. The deal marks Samsung's full-scale entry into the rapidly expanding driver assistance technology market and strengthens its position in automotive electronics beyond smartphones and memory chips.

Key Details:

• Transaction value: €1.5 billion ($1.77 billion)
• Expected closing: Within 2026
• Acquired assets: ADAS technologies including front-facing vehicle cameras and ADAS controllers

Market Opportunity:

The global ADAS and central vehicle controller market is projected to grow from 62.6 trillion won ($42.18 billion) in 2025 to 97.4 trillion won in 2030, representing a significant growth opportunity as vehicles become increasingly software and sensor-driven.

Strategic Implications:

• Strengthens Harman's position beyond its core audio business
• Positions Samsung to capitalize on the growing telematics market where ADAS is becoming core technology
• Represents Samsung's continued diversification strategy through acquisitions

Context:

ZF Friedrichshafen, one of the world's largest auto parts suppliers with 2023 revenues exceeding €41 billion, has been restructuring amid industry challenges. The German company announced plans to cut up to 14,000 positions as it grapples with weak EV demand and high debt from previous acquisitions.

This acquisition follows Samsung's pattern of strategic investments in 2025, including the purchase of German cooling system maker FlaktGroup. The deal underscores the convergence of consumer electronics and automotive technology as vehicles increasingly rely on advanced sensors and software systems.