Spotlight: Akebono

Akebono is a leader in the development of advanced, performance brake pad friction material and brake technology and is known for optimizing stopping power and reducing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) issues.

Jan. 1, 2020

2 min read

Originator of ceramic brake friction material.

As vehicles continue to move upscale in amenities and performance, motorists have increasingly become more demanding in regard to smooth, quiet, braking performance. Akebono puts its emphasis on brake NVH within each vehicle category: European, "tuner," street performance, and everyday driving.

Akebono originated ceramic friction technology for brake pads and now it's the fastest growing segment in the automotive aftermarket. Tests show that advanced ceramic formulations—optimized for specific vehicle applications—are ideal for controlling and/or eliminating NVH issues. The brake pad formulations are designed to provide superior pad life and durability versus traditional brake pads in typical driving conditions. In critical braking situations, advanced ceramic friction technology provides more consistent stopping power than other brake pad technologies.

Globally, Akebono provides automotive brake pads, drum brake shoes, and brake calipers to more than 45 original equipment manufacturers (OEM), OE-suppliers, and aftermarket customers. In 2005, Akebono introduced several new products to the European and "tuner" markets, including EURO and Akebono Street Performance Ultra-Premium ceramic brake pads. Service centers now offer the low NVH, low disc thickness variation (DTV) and low dusting benefits found in the Akebono Pro-ACT Ultra-Premium line to European and tuner vehicle owners.