ZF, a global leader in braking technologies, has introduced a comprehensive range of Brake-by-Wire (BbW) solutions designed for the era of electrified and software-defined vehicles. With more than 3 billion brake components produced over the past five decades, ZF is building on its expertise to deliver powerful, reliable, and adaptable braking systems. The BbW portfolio allows automakers to design vehicles with greater flexibility, offering options in fully electric, fully hydraulic, or hybrid configurations to meet diverse market and customer requirements.
In ZF’s “dry” BbW system, braking force is generated entirely through electromechanical actuators at the wheels, eliminating the need for hydraulic fluids. This enables faster response times, optimized energy recuperation for electric vehicles, and reduced maintenance costs. The system also minimizes residual drag torque, lowering brake pad wear and particulate emissions while extending EV driving range. Its precision and performance make it particularly effective for dynamic driving scenarios.
In markets such as the United States, ZF is advancing hybrid BbW systems that combine electromechanical brakes on the rear axle with conventional hydraulic brakes on the front. This setup is well-suited for heavy-duty light trucks and pickups, ensuring strong braking power while simplifying chassis design. Hybrid systems also remove the need for vacuum brake boosters, offering safety, flexibility, and reduced system complexity. In January 2025, ZF secured a major global OEM order for this solution.
At the heart of ZF’s braking innovation is its Integrated Brake Control (IBC) system, which has been in production since 2018. Compact and adaptable across all vehicle segments, IBC integrates functions such as ESC, brake boosting, and electronic control into a single unit. It can serve as the main ECU for both ZF and third-party software, reducing the number of separate control units needed in a vehicle. By combining IBC with BbW, ZF provides manufacturers with a scalable, future-ready solution for braking performance and vehicle dynamics.
