BWI Group, thyssenkrupp Steering ally on R&D of EMB

On April 9, BWI Group, the HK-listed intelligent automotive chassis supplier, and thyssenkrupp Steering, the global tier-1 automotive partner for steering solutions, struck a deal for the development and manufacturing of a pioneering Electro-Mechanical Brake (EMB) technology, according to a press release from BWI Group.

Under the agreement, BWI Group and thyssenkrupp Steering will leverage their strengths and expertise in safety-critical systems and software to bolster their collaboration. Both companies are set to expedite collaborative efforts in advancing EMB systems, a pivotal component of future Vehicle Motion Control (VMC) solutions.

The project aims to establish cutting-edge automated production lines by 2025, with production and delivery slated to commence in 2026. 

The EMB R&D will take place at BWI Group's global R&D Centers in Italy, Poland, the U.S., and China, along with its Shanghai Software Center. thyssenkrupp's technical centers in Hungary and Liechtenstein will also play key roles.

BWI Group, boasting over a century of rich history and extensive R&D as well as production prowess, brings its expertise in brakes and suspension systems to the table for the development of the latest EMB product. With a global clientele exceeding 50, BWI leverages its prior experience with EMB systems as Delphi in the 2000s. 

thyssenkrupp Steering has been developing steer-by-wire technology for many years. The company brings extensive expertise in new electrical/electronic (E/E) architectures and software, in addition to its proficiency in electro-mechanical braking systems, which is rooted in its experience with steering technology.

The jointly developed EMB system enhances both companies' chassis portfolios. They're now advancing to the third generation, a revolutionary technology simplifying vehicle assembly and providing braking redundancy for Level 3 and above autonomous driving.

Featuring a dual-motor design, efficient packaging, and novel redundancy, the newly developed EMB caliper ensures safety and reliability. Its reaction speed for time to wheel lock (TTL) is nearly twice as fast than modern one box wet brake systems and can enable complete braking energy recovery. 

As a visionary brake technology that eliminates the need for brake fluid while offering precise control with zero drag, EMB will become the definitive solution for future brake-by-wire technology, replacing current hydraulic calipers, and the accompanying One-Box and Two-Box brake actuation/modulation systems.