The Rise of Electro-Hydraulic Brakes: How They Work
The “Passenger Car Brake-by-Wire and AEB Market Research Report, 2024” has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com’s offerings, reflecting the rapid evolution of brake-by-wire technology within the global automotive industry. This development highlights a significant shift toward electro-hydraulic brakes (EHB) and automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems.
Electro-Hydraulic Brake Penetration Surpasses Expectations
As of the first half of 2024, the automotive sector has witnessed a remarkable surge in the adoption of EHB systems. Installations approached 4 million units, marking a year-on-year growth of 101%. The installation rate exceeded 40%, a significant 19.9 percentage-point increase compared to the same period in 2023. This accelerated growth underlines the burgeoning demand for brake-by-wire solutions, particularly driven by the new energy vehicle (NEV) market.
The increasing popularity of systems is attributed to their ability to meet the unique demands of NEVs. These systems eliminate the need for a vacuum power source and provide faster system response times. Moreover, technology supports regenerative braking, enabling energy recovery, which is a critical feature for electric and hybrid vehicles.
Shift Toward One-Box EHB Systems
In terms of EHB technology, the industry has seen a notable preference for One-Box configurations. During the first half of 2024, the market share of One-Box systems expanded to 75.9%, up 17.4 percentage points from the previous year. This shift reflects a growing trend toward integrated, compact, and efficient braking systems.
OEMs Drive Brake-by-Wire Innovations
Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have played a pivotal role in advancing technology. Many OEMs, especially Chinese independent brands, have established subsidiaries or joint ventures to develop and produce brake-by-wire systems. By 2024, numerous OEMs had achieved mass production of these innovative braking solutions.
For instance, Geely established VCS Technology in May 2022 to focus on the research, development, and production of core chassis systems. In December 2023, VCS Technology’s One-Box product, HDBS, began mass production with an anticipated annual output of 600,000 units. This system supports brake assist, electronic stability control (ESC), and intelligent driver-assist functions with a response time of less than 150 milliseconds. It is compatible with fuel, electric, hybrid models, and even some light commercial vehicles. Initially, the HDBS system will be deployed in Geely-branded vehicles.
Electromechanical Braking Systems Approach Maturity
Electromechanical braking (EMB) systems, considered the ultimate form of brake-by-wire, are nearing mass production readiness. Despite over two decades of research, challenges such as stringent motor requirements, lack of fail-safe backup systems, and high costs have hindered large-scale adoption. However, recent advancements by Chinese and international manufacturers signal a turning point.
Beijing West Industries (BWI) is a prominent player in this domain. In July 2024, BWI announced its “2035 Full X-by-wire” global technology strategy, emphasizing its EMB system. BWI has secured strategic collaborations with Kaiyi Automobile and U POWER, with plans to commence mass production in 2026. These developments mark a significant milestone in the evolution of EMB technology.
Key Industry Players and Collaborations
The brake-by-wire market features a diverse array of established and emerging players, including Bosch, Continental, ZF, Hitachi Astemo, Brembo, Mando, and Bethel. Additionally, Chinese companies such as BYD, Great Wall Motor, and Geely have made notable contributions.
For example, BYD’s wholly-owned subsidiary, FinDreams Powertrain, specializes in brake-by-wire solutions. Meanwhile, Great Wall Motor has integrated brake-by-wire technology within its “Forest Ecosystem” framework, leveraging its subsidiary, Figure Intelligent Technology, for R&D and production.
Advancements in AEB Technology
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) systems have become a critical component of modern vehicle safety. The “Passenger Car Brake-by-Wire and AEB Market Research Report, 2024” outlines significant advancements in AEB technology and its regulatory landscape. AEB systems now feature improved perception solutions, expanded working ranges, and enhanced functionality through over-the-air (OTA) updates.
OEMs have prioritized AEB development, focusing on sensor technology and scenario-based functionality. The integration of AEB with brake-by-wire systems offers a seamless safety and performance solution, further driving market growth.
Challenges and Future Trends
Despite the progress, the brake-by-wire industry faces several challenges. Ensuring redundancy, achieving cost efficiency, and addressing failure modes remain critical concerns. Additionally, the transition from electro-hydraulic to electromechanical systems presents technical and economic hurdles.
Looking ahead, the industry is poised for continued innovation. Key development goals for 2025-2030 include enhancing system reliability, expanding energy recovery capabilities, and achieving full integration with autonomous driving platforms. EMB systems are expected to play a pivotal role in this evolution, with small-scale mass production anticipated by 2026.
The “Passenger Car Brake-by-Wire and AEB Market Research Report, 2024” provides a comprehensive overview of the rapid advancements in brake-by-wire technology. With growing adoption rates, significant OEM contributions, and ongoing R&D efforts, the industry is well-positioned to revolutionize automotive braking systems. As the market continues to evolve, brake-by-wire and AEB technologies will remain at the forefront of innovation, shaping the future of vehicle safety and performant.
