Bendix stops Tesla Model 3, Model Y

BENDIX has announced the expansion of its EV-Hybrid range of disc brake pads to include Australia and New Zealand’s best-selling electric vehicles, the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y.

The availability of the EV-Hybrid disc brake pad range for Tesla models further extends the new energy vehicle (NEV) range offered by Bendix, with model offerings from Honda, Lexus, Mitsubishi and Toyota now covered – and additional releases planned in the coming months.

Answering what the manufacturer says is growing demand, the product line expansion includes front and rear sets designed in Ballarat, Victoria, for local requirements.

Bendix says the organic friction material used in the EV-Hybrid disc brake pads comprise a range of ingredients including synthetic glass fibres, aramid fibres and natural organic fibres as the main reinforcing elements.

These are supported by organic modifiers and binding resins to deliver strong stopping power, and low noise and dust emissions, while also providing low environmental impact.

Certified to the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers’ Association (AASA) ‘N’ rating, the copper-free organic friction materials used in the Bendix EV-Hybrid disc pad range contains less than 0.5 per cent of copper by weight, permitted the product to wear the coveted LeafMark ‘N’ icon.

The AASA LeafMark for friction materials represents one of the most stringent environmental standards for brake materials. Bendix says the material used in the construction of its EV-Hybrid material has been “tested and accredited by an independent lab and certified to meet this high standard”.

Further adding to the green credentials of the EV-Hybrid product is packaging that does away with plastic shrink wrap in favour of paper-based Hexcel Wrap. The 100 per cent recyclable product is FSC Certified.

“The AASA LeafMark for friction materials represents one of the most stringent environmental standards for brake materials (US-based) and the Bendix EV-Hybrid material has been tested and accredited by an independent lab and certified to meet this high standard,” said Bendix product manager, Ian Campbell.

“Bendix has decided to go down this path to further advance its corporate environmental credentials as an environmentally progressive company to be prepared for the future.

“(Further,) the brake pads packaging come in FSC Certified. Packaging with FSC Mix Certified means at least 70 per cent of this packaging comes from FSC certified or recycled material, while 30 per cent is made from controlled wood.

“This is also helping to minimise impact to the environment, and is 100 per cent kerbside recyclable,” said Mr Campbell.

A further advantage of the newly developed EV-Hybrid brake pads is that they incorporate the Bendix Green Titanium Stripe for instant friction without the need for bedding in the brakes on installation, saving both time and money for both the installer and the customer.