Brembo and Michelin Partner to Develop Next-Generation Braking Systems

Brembo and Michelin Partner to Develop Next-Generation Braking Systems

Brembo, a global leader in braking systems, and Michelin, a leading tyre manufacturer, have signed a global agreement to collaborate on the development of advanced braking technologies.

The partnership leverages Brembo’s expertise in braking systems, vehicle modelling, and artificial intelligence and Michelin’s leadership in tyre modelling and algorithm development.

The innovation relies on the continuous exchange of real-time data between Michelin’s connected solutions software, which provides tyre grip data, and Brembo’s innovative SENSIFY braking system. This data enables engineers to fine-tune the braking system with exceptional precision, enhancing SENSIFY’s performance.

Michelin’s tyre-connected solutions utilise the company’s expertise in tyre physics modelling and simulation. Through live vehicle data analysis, Michelin has developed software that provides real-time information on tyre wear (Michelin SmartWear), load (Michelin SmartLoad) and grip (Michelin SmartGrip). This software is compatible with all tyre brands.

Serge Lafon, President of the Business Line Automotive Original Equipment at Michelin, commented: “We are thrilled to join forces with a brand like Brembo, a leader in its field. Our shared passion for innovation and excellence allows us to take a new step forward in enhancing user safety. Allowing customers to keep their tires in use as long as possible with total peace of mind is a core objective of Michelin, thus protecting their purchasing power and the environment. Today, Michelin is a “data-driven company” where simulation and software development are essential tools in the real-time monitoring of tyres. Together, Michelin and Brembo are building a unique solution for the vehicles of the future, developed today by the car makers.”

“At Brembo, we believe in the power of technology and artificial intelligence,” said Daniele Schillaci, CEO of Brembo. “In fact, we are increasingly becoming a company combining software capabilities with our expertise in the corner of the vehicle, mastering callipers, discs and friction materials with unique know-how. SENSIFY represents the new standard in braking that will target a zero-accident vision. This partnership with Michelin illustrates the power of collaboration and innovation in the automotive industry.”

Brembo’s SENSIFY sets a new benchmark for braking systems, designed for integration into any modern vehicle. It combines Brembo’s braking components with a digital brain that utilises AI, algorithms, and sensors to independently control each wheel.

Initial virtual and on-track tests have demonstrated promising results. In the first phase, Michelin’s tyre models and algorithms were integrated with Brembo’s intelligent braking models in a virtual environment. In the second phase, physical tests were conducted at Michelin’s Research Center, confirming the simulation results.

Tests demonstrated braking distance reductions of up to four metres (13 feet) during Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) events, with the same tyres in various conditions. The braking system also exhibited quicker response times, minimised traction loss, improved lateral stability and eliminated wheel locking, contributing to a smoother and more comfortable driving experience.

BendPak Launches Ranger RB30T Hybrid Wheel Balancer For Truck And Bus Wheels

BendPak Launches Ranger RB30T Hybrid Wheel Balancer For Truck And Bus Wheels

Designed to tackle the largest truck and bus wheels while maintaining precision for passenger vehicles, the RB30T Hybrid Wheel Balancer from Ranger (a BendPak division) delivers power and versatility. Switching between heavy-duty and light-duty applications is effortless, requiring just a button press. Its integrated pneumatic wheel lift enhances safety and ergonomics by minimising manual handling and reducing injury risks.

Capable of balancing wheels for buses, semi-trucks, OTR vehicles, light trucks and cars, the RB30T ensures fast, accurate results without recalibration. Its re-engineered platform supports wheels up to 330 lbs (approx. 150 kg), 49.25 inches in diameter and 20 inches wide, with rapid cycle times – seven seconds for car wheels and around 20 seconds for full truck assemblies. At its core, the Ranger Drive-Check system uses advanced 64-bit processing and quartz piezoelectric sensors to detect even the slightest imbalances across multiple axes. This smart technology simulates real-world driving conditions, identifying vibrations before they become road issues and automatically recommending optimal corrections.

Built for durability, the RB30T features a ribbed nylon-fibre drive belt, counter-weighted flywheel system and a three-phase motor with solid-state phase conversion for smooth, high-torque operation under heavy loads. The balancer comes ready to use with a commercial mounting kit, including cones and adapters, while its spacious top tray and side shelves keep wheel weights and tools organised for efficient workflow.

Available as a standalone unit or with the Ranger Select package – which includes professional installation and training – the RB30T is a robust solution for shops handling diverse wheel balancing needs.

Sean Price, Director of Product Development, said, “The new RB30T wheel balancer can do it all. Its versatility makes the RB30T a great choice not just for heavy-duty fleets and repair garages but also for high-volume tyre shops and mixed fleets.”

Bridgestone Launches First Aircraft Tyre Tracking System With Cebu Pacific

Bridgestone Launches First Aircraft Tyre Tracking System With Cebu Pacific

Bridgestone has officially rolled out its proprietary aircraft tyre management system “easytrack” in collaboration with Cebu Pacific Air, marking the first deployment of the solution by a commercial airline.

The system, launched in April 2025, uses QR codes and a smartphone app to track aircraft tyres across the supply chain—replacing Cebu Pacific’s manual, paper-based process.

“As Cebu Pacific continues to expand its operations, it's essential that we invest in smart solutions that enhance efficiency and reduce manual workload,” said Shevantha Weerasekera, Vice President, Engineering & Fleet Management at Cebu Pacific. “Partnering with Bridgestone to implement the ‘easytrack’ system has enabled us to significantly improve our tyre  management processes significantly, ensuring greater accuracy, safety, and productivity across our operations.”

Bridgestone said the system has halved labour time for inventory management and achieved full tyre tracking accuracy after verification trials at Cebu Pacific’s warehouses, MROs, and maintenance bases.

“As a value co-creation partner, we have proposed solutions tailored to on-site operations based on learnings and insights gained from Cebu Pacific Air’s frontline operations,” said Arata Tomita, Director, Global Aviation Tire Solutions Business Division at Bridgestone. “We are very pleased that the official implementation of ‘easytrack’ has contributed to the improvement of operational accuracy, safety, and productivity.”

Bridgestone said the move aligns with its “Bridgestone E8 Commitment,” with a focus on enhancing efficiency and ecology by supporting sustainable tyre practices and operational productivity.

Japan’s ispace, Bridgestone Sign Agreement To Develop Tyres For Lunar Rovers By 2029

Japan’s ispace, Bridgestone Sign Agreement To Develop Tyres For Lunar Rovers By 2029

Japanese start-up ispace inc. and tyre maker Bridgestone have agreed to jointly develop tyres for small and midsize lunar rovers, targeting Moon use by 2029.

The partnership equips Bridgestone’s elastic wheel technology—designed to adapt to harsh lunar terrain—on ispace's rover prototypes. The companies will conduct Earth-based performance tests before Moon deployment.

“Bridgestone’s lunar rover tyre has a structure of thin metal spokes, enabling flexible deformation while maintaining durability,” said Masaki Ota, Director of OE Business Strategy & Planning/New Mobility Business Division at Bridgestone. “This design delivers superior ability to traverse and shock absorption, allowing the rover to traverse the lunar surface and overcome obstacles such as lunar rocks.”

Bridgestone started developing lunar rover tyres in 2019 and unveiled concept models in April 2025 with lower weight to suit smaller rover platforms.

ispace, known for micro-sized lunar rovers, sees the partnership as key to its long-term lunar economy mission.

“ispace's goal of establishing a new economy on the Moon requires the participation of players from a wide range of industries,” said Takeshi Hakamada, Founder & CEO of ispace. “Bridgestone… is now developing lunar rover tyres for the extreme environments found on the Moon. These tyres will undoubtedly contribute to future human advancement on the Moon.”

The companies said they are also exploring collaboration opportunities through the Space Strategy Fund at Japan’s national space agency, JAXA.

Magna Tyres Introduces AI-Powered Chatbot As Part Of Customer Service Initiative

Magna Tyres

Magna Tyres, a leading premium off-the-road (OTR), industrial and truck tyre solutions company, has launched a new AI-powered (Artificial Intelligence) chatbot on its official website.

The chatbot will provide instant assistance to its customers 24x7 in any language around the world.

Robert Gruijters, Head of Marketing, Magna Tyres, said, “Customer service is at the core of our brand promise. With a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 67, we already outperform many in our industry and this launch reinforces our commitment to becoming a truly best-in-class brand by being always available, accessible and responsive.”

This move is part of the company’s efforts to not only meet but exceed customer expectations by providing an instantaneous response ranging from product queries to general support.