The automotive braking system stands as one of the most critical safety components in any vehicle, ensuring control, stability, and, most importantly, the ability to stop safely. Over the years, this industry has witnessed remarkable evolution and innovation, driven by a relentless pursuit of safer, more efficient, and technologically advanced braking solutions. The history of automotive brakes dates back to the late nineteenth century when the first automobiles hit the roads. Initially, braking systems were simple, relying on mechanical components like drum brakes. The development of vehicle brakes accelerated in the twentieth century with the advent of hydraulic braking systems, which provided more reliable and responsive braking. The next decades saw the introduction of disc brakes, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and other innovations targeted at improving safety and performance.
According to the research report, “Global Automotive Breaking System Market Outlook, 2029” published by Bonafide Research, the market is anticipated to cross USD 35 Billion by 2029, increasing from USD 26.59 Billion in 2023. The market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 5.38% by 2024-29. Stringent safety regulations imposed by governments and industry standards organizations worldwide have propelled the demand for advanced braking systems.
Largest Automotive Breaking System Companies in the World.
1. ZF Friedrichshafen AG
Founded in 1915, ZF has evolved from a supplier specializing in aviation technology to a global mobility technology company. The company’s product offerings include steering and braking systems, occupant safety systems, front and rear axles, transmissions and powertrain modules, and drive components among others. ZF also provides integrated solutions across the vehicle life cycle, including spare parts, preventive overhaul, conversion, and retrofitting repair, technical information and advice, training, and expert marketing support, and remanufacturing of used units. The ZF Group operates 162 production locations in 31 countries. With some 168,700 employees worldwide, ZF reported sales of €46.6 billion in fiscal year 2023. Group shareholders include the Zeppelin Foundation, administered by the City of Friedrichshafen, holding 93.8 percent of shares, and the Dr. Jürgen and Irmgard Ulderup Foundation, Lemförde, with 6.2 percent.
2. Robert Bosch GmbH
Robert Bosch GmbH commonly known as Bosch, is a German multinational engineering and technology company headquartered in Gerlingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. The company was founded by Robert Bosch in Stuttgart in 1886. The Bosch Group is a supplier of technology and services. It employs roughly 429,000 associates worldwide (as of December 31, 2023). The company generated sales of 91.6 billion euros in 2023. Its operations are divided into four business sectors: mobility, industrial technology, consumer goods, and energy and building technology. The company offers a wide range of products and solutions such as auto parts and accessories, eBike systems, motor vehicle technology, household appliances, security systems, solar inverters, packaging technology, industry solutions and business process management solutions. Along with sales and service partners, subsidiaries, and regional companies, the company serves customers in the automobile industry, consumer electronics, and BPO industries across the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Africa. Bosch is headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany.
3. Akebono Brake Industry Co., Ltd
The company was founded by Sanji Osame in 1929 as Akebono Sekimen Kogyosho as a response to the demand by the Japan Army Authority for ground transport; its first products were brake linings used by the government entity. Akebono Brake Industry Co., Ltd. is mainly engaged in the manufacture and sale of brakes for automotive, industrial equipment, and railway vehicles, as well as the research and development business and the logistics services business. The company operates through six regional segments. The company is engaged in the production of disc brakes, disc pads, drum brakes, shoe assemblies, brake linings, industrial equipment brakes, railway vehicle brakes, corner modules, rotors, master cylinders, and other products The Company operates in Japan, North America, Europe, China, Thailand and Indonesia. Company F.Y. 2023 reported net sales are 166.3 Billion Yen.
4. Brembo S.p.A
Founded in 1961 in Italy, Brembo has a long-standing reputation for providing innovative solutions for OEMs and the aftermarket. With about 15,653 people across 15 countries, 32 production and business sites, 9 R&D centres, and a turnover of €3,849.2 million in 2023. Brembo is the owner of the Brembo, AP, AP Racing, Breco, Bybre, J.Juan, Marchesini and SBS Friction​ brands. Brembo specializes in performance braking systems and components as well as conducting research on braking systems. Brembo sells over 1,300 products worldwide and is known for their aftermarket automotive brake components, including calipers, drums, rotors, and brake lines. Brembo owns the foundries that produce their initial materials and supply the manufacturing plants.
5. Continental AG​
Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic, and transportation. In 2023, Continental generated sales of €41.4 billion and currently employs around 200,000 people in 56 countries and markets. Continental AG is a holding company, which engages in the manufacture and sale of soft rubber products, rubberized fabrics, and solid tires. It operates through the following segments: Chassis and Safety, Powertrain, Interior, Tires, ContiTech, and Other/Consolidation.
6. Aisin Corporation
Since Aisin Seiki was first established in 1965, AISIN Group has played a crucial role in the expansion of the automotive industry and has grown to become a global supplier.To strengthen collaboration within the Group and improve management efficiency, AISIN Group switched from branch management to group-wide management and introduced the company system to maximize sustainable business value in the entire group. Furthermore, in 2021, two core companies of AISIN Group, Aisin Seiki and Aisin AW, merged their business operations to further strengthen competitiveness for survival in the once-in-a-century great transformational era. The Aisin Group is revenue is 44, 02.8 billion yen global, Tier One supplier of automotive components and systems with over 217 consolidated companies spanning over 20 countries and some 110,000 employees.