Cooperation between Michelin and Brembo: Networking technologies
Michelin, leading tire manufacturer and expert in connected solutions, and Brembo, specialist in braking systems, have signed an agreement to develop pioneering technologies. Brembo will contribute its expertise in braking, vehicle modeling and artificial intelligence. Michelin complements this with its experience in tire modeling and the development of algorithms. A central component of this cooperation is the innovative data exchange between Michelin’s Connected Solutions software and Brembo’s SENSIFY® braking system.
With the help of this networking, the Michelin software provides information on tire grip to the braking system in real time. This enables developers to precisely adjust the braking systems to the current conditions and continuously optimize performance.
Michelin’s digital tire solutions
Michelin has many years of experience in tire simulation and modeling. By analyzing live vehicle data, various factors such as tire wear, load distribution or grip can be monitored in real time. These include:
- Michelin SmartWear: information on current tire wear.
- Michelin SmartLoad: Monitoring of the load.
- Michelin SmartGrip: Analysis of grip values.
These solutions work across all manufacturers and are not limited to Michelin tires.
Brembo SENSIFY®: An intelligent braking system
With SENSIFY®, Brembo combines proven brake components with a digital control system based on artificial intelligence. Sensors and algorithms make it possible to control each wheel independently. This results in faster reaction times, less loss of traction and optimized lateral stability. This intelligent braking system adapts flexibly to different vehicle models and thus improves driving safety.
Positive results from initial tests
The collaboration between Michelin and Brembo is already showing promising results. In an initial test phase, the systems were integrated in a virtual environment, whereby the Michelin algorithms and Brembo’s brake models were brought together. The second phase involved driving tests at the Michelin research center in Ladoux, France.
Test conditions and results
Extensive tests were carried out over a total of 17 days between September 30 and October 29, 2024. The tests took place under controlled conditions:
- Weather: dry and wet roads with 0.8 mm water level.
- Tire types: new tires and tires with 2 mm residual tread.
- Speeds: 50 km/h, 90 km/h, 110 km/h and 130 km/h.
- Tire pressure: nominal pressure and deviating pressure.
The results confirmed the simulations:
- The braking distance could be shortened by up to 4 meters when ABS was used. This corresponds roughly to the length of an average car.
- The reaction time of the braking system was significantly reduced.
- Traction losses were minimized and wheel lock-ups did not occur.
- Lateral stability improved significantly.
The bottom line is that the combination of the two systems leads to a smoother and more comfortable driving experience.
The future of vehicle safety
Michelin and Brembo see this partnership as an important step in the further development of vehicle technology. The aim is to make future generations of vehicles safer and more efficient. Both companies emphasize the role of innovation and collaboration.
Serge Lafon, President of the Automotive Original Equipment business line at Michelin, emphasizes:
“One of our most important goals at Michelin is to ensure that drivers can use their tires safely for as long as possible. Simulation and software development are important tools for this.”
Daniele Schillaci, CEO of Brembo, adds:
“SENSIFY® represents the new standard in braking, aiming for a zero-accident vision. The partnership with Michelin illustrates the importance of innovation and cooperation in the automotive industry.”
Conclusion: Smart technologies for more safety
By pooling their expertise, Michelin and Brembo are developing intelligent solutions that are designed to both shorten braking distances and improve driving comfort. Thanks to the networked interplay of tire and braking technology, vehicles are becoming safer and more efficient – a step towards future-oriented mobility.
