What challenges does braking technology face?

Current braking technology faces several simultaneous challenges: It must continue to ensure high braking performance, good NVH behavior, and reliable operation in wet, cold, and corrosive conditions. In addition, it must adapt to new vehicle architectures that incorporate energy recovery and involve decreasing reliance on mechanical braking.

Compounding these challenges are rising demands for efficiency, reduced maintenance, and extended service life, as modern braking systems must remain robust and cost-effective.

Emissions and sustainability requirements for multi-disc brakes

At the same time, sustainability considerations and the goal of achieving mobility with the lowest possible emissions are becoming an increasingly central focus of modern braking systems. In addition to traditional safety and performance requirements, multi-disc brakes must now also help reduce environmental impact.

Of particular relevance here are particulate emissions, which are generated by friction during braking and are increasingly subject to stricter legal limits.

At the same time, the increased use of regenerative braking means that mechanical brakes are used less frequently. This promotes corrosion and can negatively impact service life, comfort, and maintenance requirements. Sustainable braking systems must therefore not only be designed to be low-wear and low-emission, but also function reliably even with infrequent use, exhibit low residual drag torques, and remain cost-effective throughout their entire life cycle.

Zero Emission Brake enables emission-free braking

The Miba Zero Emission Brake is integrated into the drive unit as a wet multi-disc brake and combines braking function, actuation, and thermal management in a closed system. The electromechanical actuation mechanism transmits the braking torque to the disc stack via a ball-ramp mechanism, while the shared oil cooling system for the electric motor, bearings, and brake simplifies the thermal design and enhances the space-saving and efficiency benefits of the overall system.

The sealed design is particularly significant from a technical standpoint: It reduces corrosion, drag torque, and maintenance-related failures, thereby addressing key weaknesses of conventional friction brakes. The Zero Emission Brake is designed to meet the high requirements for braking torque, ABS/ESP functionality, fatigue strength, and thermal resistance, while also being prepared for upcoming particulate emission limits.