Michelin and Brembo, two of the biggest names in tires and brakes, are now partners in developing the next generation of performance and safety. The partnership will rely on Michelin’s software, which will send real-time tire grip data to Brembo’s AI-powered SENSIFY braking system.
Michelin Premier Tire
Michelin
Michelin’s AI software suite uses algorithms and sensors to manage tires
Michelin has a whole suite of software that uses sensors already on the car to provide information on wear, load, and the aforementioned grip. All of them have names like SmartWear, SmartLoad, and SmartGrip. It makes sense.
“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,” said Serge Lafon, President of the Business Line Automotive Original Equipment at
Michelin.
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Jeep
Brembo utilizes AI to individually control each brake
On the other side, Brembo’s SENSIFY system uses AI, algorithms, and sensors combined with individual electric motors to independently control the brakes on each wheel. This has reportedly resulted in one of the most advanced braking systems on the market.
“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 calipers, discs, and friction materials with a 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 Sensify Brakes Tests
Brembo
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Tests showed reduced braking distance and better response
The two companies tested the mating of their two software platforms virtually at first and then on real-world tracks at Michelin’s Research Center. The results showed braking distance reductions of up to 13
feet during ABS events with the same tires in various conditions.
The braking system also demonstrated faster response times, reduced traction loss, enhanced lateral stability, and no wheel locking.
Final thoughts
Here’s an excellent example of AI being harnessed to improve automotive safety. As vehicles grow larger and heavier, better braking capabilities will be essential and AI is often better at predicting things than humans are.
It will, however, be interesting to see if this new collaboration will increase the prices of new cars that are shipped with this technology built-in. Cars are already expensive as it is and making safer cars even more expensive could lead to some people preferring cheaper, less safe cars. Let’s hope that never comes to fruition though.