SAF-HOLLAND is moving decisively from being a supplier of individual components to becoming a more integrated systems partner for commercial vehicle customers. At IAA Transportation 2026 in Hannover, the Group demonstrated how its growing portfolio of axles, suspensions, braking systems, fifth wheels and intelligent technologies can work together as a broader transport solution.
Speaking to MOTORINDIA, Mr. Andreas Richter, President APAC, SAF-HOLLAND Group, said the objective is to simplify the customer experience by bringing multiple technologies under one group. “We want to give our customers one point of service for the whole package; from the axle and suspension to braking systems and other components,” he explained.
This integrated approach is also about improving lifecycle economics. By combining complementary products and technologies, SAF-HOLLAND aims to help fleets reduce downtime, simplify maintenance and streamline spare-parts requirements. The Group’s latest strategy reflects the integration of brands and capabilities acquired over recent years, including Haldex, into a broader system offering.
India Emerging as a Key Growth Engine
For Andreas, India is among the most promising markets for SAF-HOLLAND in the medium to long term. The country’s continuing investment in roads, logistics infrastructure and organised freight movement is creating greater demand for advanced trailer and truck components. SAF-HOLLAND’s own 2026 results also point to strong momentum in APAC, driven particularly by India.
“We see very good growth opportunities in India. Infrastructure is developing nicely, and more customers are becoming interested in our products because we can provide both support and easy service,” Andreas said. He believes quality will remain a universal requirement, regardless of whether a vehicle operates in Europe or India.
The company is therefore looking to balance global technology standards with regional operating realities. Longer product life, easier serviceability and reduced downtime become particularly important in markets where service infrastructure and technical expertise are still developing. SAF-HOLLAND also sees its Pune-based Tech Center as an important part of its global R&D network, supporting software and mechatronic development.
From Intelligent Axles to Connected Trailers
At IAA, the Group presented a wide portfolio ranging from standard and self-steering axles to EBS, ABS and valve technologies, fifth wheels, kingpins and Haldex braking solutions. One of the notable technologies was the SAF TRAKr recuperation axle, which can generate electrical energy while the vehicle is moving or braking, supporting applications such as refrigerated trailers.
Andreas also highlighted the growing importance of data and digitalisation. Information gathered through electronic braking and trailer systems can be used to improve maintenance, durability and fleet efficiency, with AI increasingly helping companies process and interpret large volumes of operational data.
“Tyre pressure is one simple example. Running with the wrong pressure increases fuel consumption and accelerates tyre wear,” he said, highlighting how relatively simple data-driven interventions can deliver measurable benefits to fleet operators.
Preparing for India’s Next Trailer Cycle
Andreas expects India’s trailer ecosystem to gradually evolve towards greater trailer utilisation and hub-and-spoke logistics. While European fleets commonly operate multiple trailers per truck, India is still at an earlier stage of this transition. As organised distribution networks expand, SAF-HOLLAND believes demand for advanced trailer technologies will grow correspondingly.
The company’s approach is ultimately centred on being closer to the customer. Andreas noted that SAF-HOLLAND has around 850 outlets in India, giving it an extensive touchpoint with fleets, workshops and users. Training drivers and understanding real-world operating conditions are also part of this customer-centric approach.
“We are a customer company. We talk to customers, drivers and people who operate the vehicles every day,” Andreas emphasised. “Their inputs help us understand what they need and train them to operate their vehicles in the best possible way.”
With its integrated portfolio, expanding digital capabilities and growing focus on regional customer needs, SAF-HOLLAND’s vision is increasingly moving beyond components. Its direction is towards becoming a complete systems and lifecycle partner for the evolving global commercial vehicle industry.