Recently, a German automotive supplier tested a new braking system. It is revolutionary in that it can eliminate the emissions of fine particles produced by braking. This system is also expected to meet the European Union’s upcoming Euro 7 pollution standard. What should we know about this innovation?
Ending brake-derived fine particles
Since the early 2020s, we know that the production of microplastics by road transport is a reality, mainly through the wear particles from brakes and tires. Here, we focus specifically on the releases related to brakes—from pad wear—which account for 55% of the share of fine-particle emissions from road transport, according to the Joint Research Centre (JRC) of the European Commission.
While the phenomenon is widely understood, solutions remain lacking. Nevertheless, the German automotive supplier Schaeffler says it has found a solution. In a press release published on August 12, 2026, the company explains that it has tested a wet-lamella braking system. This new system appears revolutionary, as it is capable of eliminating the fine-particle emissions generated by braking.
“This system generates no braking dust emissions, operates quietly, and is designed to require no maintenance. The tests focused on the system’s operation and durability under the most severe conditions.”, reads the press release.
An Innovation Designed for the Euro 7 Standard
Unlike traditional disk brakes that release black dust into the air as the pads rub, Schaeffler’s system is based on a hermetic concept. It is an entirely closed system. In fact, a single sealed housing contains the brake, the actuator, as well as the oil and cooling circuit. The ingenuity lies mainly in the fact that wear debris and brake dust no longer escape into the environment or onto the rims. Indeed, these residues remain trapped inside the oil bath. Schaeffler thus promises a complete elimination of fine-particle emissions related to braking.
The equipment maker also stated that the system has been designed to help the industry meet the requirements of the forthcoming Euro 7 standard. Set to apply to all new vehicles starting November 29, 2026, this standard marks a historic turning point. It is the first time a pollution standard frames fine-particle emissions from brakes (and tires) rather than only exhaust gases.
A system that could become essential for electric vehicles
To demonstrate the effectiveness of its concept, the supplier tested its system under real-world conditions. These tests took place during a DTM race weekend at the famous Nürburgring circuit. The device was fitted to an Audi R8 LMS GT2. Although still a prototype, the new braking system is currently being studied for serial production and thus market commercialization.
In the first instance, Schaeffler would like to democratize this innovation on small city cars with internal combustion engines, not forgetting their electric counterparts. The system should also serve electric vehicles much more, whose mechanical brakes often remain idle in favor of engine regenerative braking. This results in undesirable corrosion, a rust problem that the new system can prevent.
