ZF TRW has recently produced its sixty millionth electric park brake (EPB) motor-on-caliper unit. The technology was first developed at ZF TRW’s global technical center in Koblenz, Germany and the company also now produces EPB in North America and China.
“The production of our sixty millionth EPB unit marks an important milestone for ZF TRW and highlights the success of our field proven, EPB product portfolio, now in production in its fifth generation,” said Manfred Meyer, vice president, ZF TRW Braking Engineering. “ZF TRW was first to market with its EPB system in 2001 which pioneered with Lancia, Audi and VW and has since launched on Renault, Nissan and Daimler platforms, and more recently on the BMW X4 and BMW i8, Jeep Renegade, Fiat 500X, Ford F150, Honda Accord, Nissan Qashqai, Range Rover Evoque and more.
With our vast experience, we are ideally positioned to further enhance the technology in line with new safety, functionality and cost targets: ZF TRW has exciting development plans for EPB.”
EPB is part of ZF TRW’s ongoing commitment to enhance overall brake system performance and driver safety and comfort. In addition to providing park brake functionality, EPB is a fully integral part of the brake system with features such as dynamic actuation and brake pad wear sensing and reduces the degradation associated with mechanical systems. The EPB also helps enhances safety in emergency situations with full four-wheel anti-lock functionality versus standard park brake emergency braking only on the rear axle.
Meyer added: “Because EPB is electronically, rather than mechanically-controlled, it can work with a variety of vehicle systems and sensors. As an example, in the US, following NHTSA’s recent FMVSS 111 amendment that will require rear backup cameras, an EPB system could be integrated with the video signal and automatically brake the vehicle if a potential issue is detected.”
The EPB functions as a conventional hydraulic brake for standard service brake applications, and as an electric brake for parking and emergency braking. The EPB system, with its electronic cable and control switches, simplifies routing and allows for greater freedom of design for vehicle interiors. Its smaller package becomes even more attractive as vehicle manufacturers continue to requisition vehicle space for new standard features and options.
