Brembo is working on an ‘environmentally friendly brake disc’, the Italian manufacturer announces. The ‘Greentive’ brake disc has a different type of coating that should reduce brake dust emissions and give the discs a longer life. In addition to the environmentally friendly brake discs, Brembo also introduces an improved brake spring system.
The ‘Greentive’ brake disc is primarily aimed at the top segment of the car market. With this concept, Brembo wants to contribute to the reduction of total car emissions. According to Brembo, the brake disc has an extra layer of coating that reduces corrosion and wear on the disc. The amount of brake dust that is released during braking must therefore be reduced by 50 percent. Not only is this better for the environment, it also keeps the wheels clean for longer. Corrosion is a particular problem with electric cars, because thanks to regenerative braking, they put less stress on the braking system than conventional fuel cars.
In appearance, the new brake disc can be recognized by the reflective effect of the coating and the Brembo logo on the disc itself. When the logo is worn off, it is an indication that the brakes need to be replaced. The coating can be applied to all types of brake discs that Brembo offers. In addition to the ‘Greentive’ discs, the manufacturer is introducing a new type of brake spring that allows the caliper to return to its original position more quickly when the brake pedal is released. In their own words, this prevents excess friction and both the brake discs and pads have to last longer.
Another form of emission reduction
Currently, the new brake disc is still in the development phase with car manufacturers, reports development chief Alessandro Ciotti Automotive News. According to him, the new technologies will not directly contribute to additional sales, but are mainly there to emphasize Brembo’s innovative character. How effective the coating really is, will be revealed later. Incidentally, the brakes are not the only aspect in which work is being done on further sustainability. In September, a group of British students won the James Dyson Award for a solution to combat environmental pollution from tire wear.