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In a major breakthrough for sustainable mobility, Italian braking systems leader Brembo has introduced a revolutionary new brake technology that slashes particulate emissions from vehicles by up to 90 percent . This innovation marks a significant step forward in the automotive industry’s ongoing efforts to reduce air pollution and meet increasingly stringent environmental regulations.

Traditionally, vehicle emissions have been associated primarily with exhaust fumes. However, recent studies show that non-exhaust emissions , particularly those generated by brake wear, tires, and road abrasion, contribute significantly to urban air pollution. Brake dust alone is responsible for a large portion of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) found in city environments—particles small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and cause respiratory and cardiovascular issues.

Brembo’s new braking system tackles this problem head-on. The company has developed a proprietary combination of materials and surface treatments for brake discs and pads that dramatically reduces the amount of metal particles released during braking. These advanced components are designed to wear more evenly and produce fewer airborne particles without compromising performance or safety.

How It Works

The key innovation lies in Brembo’s use of high-performance composite materials and nano-coating technologies , which minimize friction-induced wear while maintaining optimal stopping power. The new disc design also incorporates microstructures that trap and retain brake debris, preventing it from being dispersed into the atmosphere.

In independent laboratory tests conducted in collaboration with European environmental agencies, Brembo’s prototype brakes demonstrated a 90% reduction in particulate emissions compared to conventional cast iron discs under identical driving conditions.

Implications for the Automotive Industry

With governments around the world tightening emissions standards to include non-exhaust sources, Brembo’s breakthrough comes at a critical time. The European Union, for example, is expected to implement stricter regulations on brake particle emissions within the next five years. Additionally, as electric vehicles (EVs) become more prevalent—many of which rely heavily on regenerative braking—mechanical brakes may be used less frequently but still play a vital role in emergency situations, making their environmental impact even more relevant.

“This development is not just about cleaner brakes—it’s about cleaner cities,” said Stefano Villanti, Chief Innovation Officer at Brembo . “We’re proud to lead the charge in redefining what high-performance braking means in an environmentally conscious era.”

Looking Ahead

Brembo plans to begin limited production of the new brake components later this year, with full-scale commercial availability expected by early 2026. Initial partnerships are being formed with several premium automakers interested in integrating the technology into both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicles.

As urban centers grapple with air quality challenges, Brembo’s innovation could play a pivotal role in reducing the environmental footprint of transportation—proving that even the smallest parts can make a big difference.