Europe Automotive Brake Market Size - By Brake, By Component, By Technology, By Vehicle, By Propulsion, By Sales Channel, Growth Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Europe Automotive Brake Market Size

The Europe automotive brake market size was valued at USD 5.3 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.1% between 2025 and 2034.
 

The European Union along with vehicle safety evaluation bodies such as Euro NCAP influence the automotive brake market in Europe. They have mandated that both E-Class and D-Class vehicles must be equipped with modern braking systems like EBD, ESC, ABS, among others.  Braking technologies have also advanced due to the attention given to collision avoidance as well as pedestrian safety.  The focus on advanced safety features poses new challenges to the automobile market, prompting OEMs to take the lead in the funding and development of advanced braking system technologies across Europe.
 

For instance, in July 2024, The EU’s updated general safety regulation 2019/2144—now requires new passenger cars, and vans to have automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assist systems with capabilities of detecting vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. Heavy vehicles are also required to have blind-spot and collision-avoidance systems. These requirements directly drive OEM investment in intelligent braking systems equipped with advanced sensors.
 

The initiative towards a sustainable Europe has created a new surge in the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, which need regenerative braking systems. In order to meet the performance and fuel efficiency expectations for electric vehicles, their manufacturers are now concentrating on achieving quiet, lightweight, and super-efficient braking systems. This is supported by government subsidization, tax breaks, and developing EV charging infrastructure.
 

In this regard, suppliers and OEMs are cooperating to design electric powertrain-specific braking systems, making signalling remarkable growth prospects. The adoption of EVs in leading markets like Germany, France and the Netherlands are creating a continual demand for sophisticated braking systems.
 

The European automotive brake market is experiencing growth stimulation from the constant innovations in materials and braking technologies. Advanced materials like carbon composites and ceramics are being utilized to improve the performance, weight, and durability of brake components. Integration of smart braking technologies, including AEB, brake-by-wire systems, and other autonomous functionalities, also propels market growth. These technologies not only improve vehicle responsiveness but also support overarching industry shifts towards electrification and autonomous driving. European OEMs are heavily investing in R&D to maintain competitiveness, thus augmenting growth in the regional brake component segment.
 

For instance, in February 2025, Inspector Technology claimed that its carbon-ceramic brake has a remarkable operating temperature range of 1,400 °F or 760 °C, with an operational lifespan exceeding 300,000 kilometres. This shift not only allows for the miniaturization and weight reduction of the braking systems but also addresses the requirements of long-haul vehicles and improves performance for electric vehicles (EVs). This development proves the effectiveness of European R&D on practical implementation of material science progress for brakes which aid in electrification and autonomous driving.
 

Europe Automotive Brake Market Trends

• EVs integrate regenerative braking, a common feature now, which enables battery charging during deceleration. Norway Germany, and the Netherlands are leading the adoption of EVs. As a result, the problem of developing an integrated dual-function hydraulic brake and deceleration motor drive system for brakes is now the concern of engineers. Advanced braking systems support the integration of ADAS features like autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane keeping assist.
   
• For instance, in January 2025, ZF obtained a significant contract with one of the leading OEMs in the world to provide electro-mechanical brakes for 5 million vehicles. Included in the contract is a “hybrid” configuration, which is electronically controlled brake booster and rear electro-mechanical brakes with front hydraulic brakes providing flexible regenerative braking integration.
   
• Electric vehicles and high-performance cars are adopting advanced brake-by-wire technology which replaces the hydraulic brake systems. This new technology enables better integration with ADAS, enhances system responsiveness, reduces weight, and utilizes electronic signals instead of mechanical ones to actuate the brakes. European OEMs such as Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and BMW have already adopted this technology. The move towards software-defined vehicles also facilitates this change.
   
• For instance, in March 2025, Mercedes-Benz has presented its fully electric CLA EV with the MMA platform and the advanced “One Box” brake by wire system. This advanced system does away with the conventional hydraulic connection, replacing it with electronically controlled braking systems. The system integrates regenerative braking and friction brakes, achieving most of the deceleration through the electric motor and recuperating up to 200 kW with the physical brakes managing the final stop.
   

Europe Automotive Brake Market Analysis

Based on brake, the Europe automotive brake market is segmented into disc brakes and drum brakes. In 2024, the disc brake market, accounting for around 82% share and is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 5% during the forecast period.
 

• The transition toward performance vehicles and electric vehicles is changing the use of aluminium alloys, carbon composites, and ceramics in disc brakes. These materials improve performance, fuel efficiency, and decrease weight, all while improving longevity of components. Adoption of carbon-ceramic discs is rising due to their superior thermal stability and low wear rate despite being more expensive, which aligns with Europe’s sustainability and electrification objectives.
   
• The adoption of modern safety systems such as ABS and ESC, disc brakes were adopted in passenger and luxury vehicles in Europe because of their better heat dissipation. Their use in sedans, SUV, and even electric vehicles illustrates their effectiveness as appreciated by manufacturers for high-speed applications. It also explains the rationale behind premium automakers Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz who are market frontrunners for such technologies.
   
• The rising interest in electric vehicles in Europe, new disc brake designs are being created to integrate with regenerative braking systems. At present disc brakes act as an auxiliary backup to both the electric and hydraulic systems and are engaged only during emergency situations; most braking is done through regenerative methods. There is motivation to devise systems with low maintenance requirements to extend the life of the disc brakes while minimizing energy use. 
   
• Disc brakes are finding their way into light commercial vehicles and trucks, especially electric and hybrid ones. The EUROVI emissions and safety requirements for commercial vehicles have also influenced OEMs to adopt disc brakes even for utility classes. The contemporary European airline sectors utilize disc brakes due to their unparalleled effectiveness in managing heat and load integration with other reliability systems, as well as integration with stability systems and numerous other contemporary features.
   
• For instance, in February 2025, through a Nissan Ariya EV, Bosch performed testing spanning over 3,300 kilometres, including the Arctic Circle, testing the new hydraulic brake-by-wire system on disc brakes and climatically validating them.

Based on vehicle, the Europe automotive brake market is segmented into passenger cars and commercial vehicles. In 2024, the passenger cars segment dominated the market with 66% of market share, and the segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 5% from 2025 to 2034.
 

• European automobile manufacturers are gradually adopting the brake-by-wire system for passenger cars in place of the traditional hydraulic braking system. This trend was driven by the adoption of hybrid and fully electric vehicles which needed software applications that required accurate and lightweight braking.
   
• The use of integrated wear detection, temperature monitoring and performance diagnostics in passenger vehicle brake systems was growing in popularity. These systems allow for predictive maintenance by alerting the user and/or servicing centre of imminent concerns before critical failure. European OEMs are integrating these diagnostics into the connected car ecosystem which enhances the safety and reliability of the systems while also providing convenience to the users.
   
• The EU CO2 emissions targets, there is a focus on changing the materials used for brakes to improve the fuel efficiency of passenger vehicles. As such, alloy callipers and carbon-ceramic rotors are examples that decrease the weight of the vehicle. This trend is most notable for hybrid and high-performance vehicles.
   
• For instance, in January 2024, ZF Friedrichshafen AG has developed a new brake-by-wire system for electric and self-driving passenger cars. The system improves safety and response time while reducing weight and hydraulic complexity, underscoring European original equipment manufacturers’ (OEMs) transitions to software-defined, brakes-by-wire systems on mainstream models.
   

Based on technology, the Europe automotive brake market is segmented into hydraulic braking system, electromechanical braking system and pneumatic braking system. The hydraulic braking system segment held a major market share and is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period.
 

• In Europe, passenger cars and light commercial vehicles continue to rely on hydraulic brakes because of their integration ease, lower cost compared to modern alternatives, and reliability. Even after 2024, lower mid-level vehicles in these regions used elevation hydraulic systems due to extremely limited budgets. Moreover, aftermarket support was strong because these systems were easy to install on existing vehicles, thus lowering maintenance costs. 
   
• Europe now incorporates electronic elements and control systems such as anti-lock braking systems, electronic stability control, and EBD into the region’s vehicles. With the hybrid hydraulic–electronic systems, regulatory requirements such as Euro NCAP can be met. Starting model year 2024, OEMs implemented these changes into B and C segment vehicles, prioritizing ESC, EBD, and ESC while still relying on hydraulic components to bolster safety. 
   
• Volkswagen and Stellantis, as European OEMs with plug-in hybrids, have recently adopted the use of electro-hydraulic boosters to satisfy the specific performance, emissions, and cost criteria benchmarks set for them.
   
• For instance, in January 2025, the EBRD allocated a €50 million loan to BMT Alutech Solutions (Croatia) for the construction of a plant which will specialize in the production of second-generation brake- by-wire systems. The plant will produce sophisticated electro-hydraulic actuation modules which convert conventional hydraulic brakes into modular, sensor-integrated, brake-by-wire systems for cars and light trucks.
   

Based on propulsion type, the Europe automotive brake market is segmented into ICE, electric, PHEV, HEV and FCEV. The ICE segment held a major market share and is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period.
 

• The planned introduction of mild hybrid 12V-48V systems into certain ICE vehicles targeted for mid-2024 release will permit light regenerative braking without necessitating a fully electric vehicle architecture. Such systems will also require brakes that interface with battery management systems.
   
• Developers of brake systems are responding by creating modular systems with hydraulic control brakes that can be partially hybridized with regenerative braking on the mechanical side.
   
• The turbocharged engines have become increasingly popular, there has been a parallel rise in demand for powerful modern sedans and SUVs, which drives vehicles.
  OEMs ventilated disc brakes dual piston calipers and ESP Improvements will be implemented.
   
• Countries located in Northern and Western Europe seem to adopt EVs more readily than those in Southern and Eastern Europe. This trend in EV uptake is influenced by the lower cost and easier availability of ICE vehicles and fuel. Furthermore, the policies that govern electric vehicles in Southern and Eastern Europe are not as advanced.
   
• For instance, in December 2024, the Spanish manufacturer ICER has released 77 new references, focusing on the extra safety features of their brake discs and their thermal conductivity and resistance to warping. This increase demonstrates the ICE enthusiast and OEM hydraulic disc market’s need for better performing and longer lasting products.

In 2024, the Germany region in Europe dominated the Europe automotive brake market with 24% market share and generated USD 1.3 billion in revenue.
 

• Germany has one of the world’s largest and most influential OEMs such as Volkswagen Group, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Audi. These manufacturers invest in braking innovations, like electromechanical brake boosters, regenerative integration, and advanced disc materials, while producing millions of vehicles each year. Braking systems of premium quality are in greater demand due to the massive scaling and intricate engineering of automobiles produced within the country.
   
• Germany is home to Continental AG, ZF Friedrichshafen, Bosch, and ATE, the world’s leading manufacturers of electro-hydraulic systems, brake-by-wire technology, and advanced lightweight composite brakes. In addition to serving domestic OEMs, these firms are also exporting sophisticated braking systems to several other European countries, thereby augmenting Germany’s dominance within the entire continental aftermarket.
   
• Vehicles from Germany especially premium brands are renowned for high-speed performance which requires exceptional braking precision and reliability. The implementation of ADAS and Euro NCAP requirements has compelled German manufacturers to adopt technologies such as ESC, AEB and brake assist systems which function on complex brake control modules.
   
• With specialized brake-testing facilities and sophisticated simulation tools, Germany has dedicated resources for the automotive industry’s R&D infrastructure. There are also collaborations between industry, government, and academia. ZF and Bosch, for example, are testing new generation hydraulic and electric brake-by-wire systems which set European standards for the rest of the industry.
   
• For instance, in October 2024, Bosch, Continental and ZF are all Germany-based tier-1 giants consistently listed among the leading manufacturers of brake systems for Europe and the rest of the world. In a recent announcement, Bosch proclaimed it would augment the concession level of braking system production in China to satiate the global appetite, further signaling Germany’s incessant leadership in exports of brake tech.
   

The Europe automotive brake market in UK is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• The United Kingdom has aligned with Euro NCAP and UNECE safety standards, thus adding new legislation on vehicle safety that ESC, AEB, and ABS will be mandated on most new vehicles. These legislations create more demand for advanced braking technologies, which in turn stimulates OEMs and suppliers to develop and localize production, thereby increasing activity in the UK market. There is a growing need for replacement exhaust valves for aging workhorse diesel vehicles.
   
• The increased integration of motorsport and high-performance brake technologies into Tamworth passenger and commercial vehicles is augmenting domestic production and export opportunities. 
   
• The expanding aftermarket for aged vehicles in the UK, including components such as pads, discs, fluids, and callipers. Post Brexit, there has been a push towards greater supply chain security which is driving local manufacturing and remanufacturing. This trend bolsters enduring forecasted consumption for cost-effective and sophisticated brake systems in the aftermarket and aftermarket sectors.
   
• The ban on the sale of petrol and diesel cars in the UK, set to take effect by 2035, will likely expedite the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles. Unlike traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, these advanced cars necessitate specialized braking systems such as regenerative braking and electro-hydraulic brakes. This shift presents prospects for advanced braking systems and offers new investment opportunities in the UK for manufacturers and suppliers.
   

The Europe automotive brake market in the France is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• The brake dust, particularly from copper brake pads, is a major health risk, which is why France is implementing Euro 7 limits on brake dust particulates. For these reasons, friction materials of concern are being replaced with advanced capture technology disc brakes, copper-free brake pads, and eco-compliant braking systems.
   
• France's bonus-malus incentive structure, initiated in 2008 and set to continue through 2024, provides significant subsidies for acquiring electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles while imposing taxes on high-emission internal combustion engine vehicles.  Thanks to this legislation, electric vehicles comprise close to one-fifth of all new car sales.  Moreover, this is fostering innovation in the braking system manufacturing and servicing sector in France by enhancing the application of regenerative braking systems alongside electro-hydraulic modules.
   
• France hosts major OEMs like Renault and Stellantis (Peugeot, Citroën, DS, Opel/Vauxhall). France also hosts global leaders in brake systems like Valeo which invests about 12% of its revenue on research and development. Valeo also leads in patenting. This entire ecosystem fosters innovation aimed at local manufacturing, production, and research for lightweight materials, advanced brake technologies like AEB, and electro-hydraulic systems, solidifying France's status as a centre for innovative expansion and market growth in braking systems.
   
• France is making strides in the areas of electric roads and the ACC Gigafactory project worth €1 billion by Stellantis and Mercedes Benz. These initiatives boost the local manufacturing of specialized brakes, regenerative-integrated systems, “brake-by-wire” technologies, and other parts, thereby supporting advanced local value chains and spurring innovation and scale production.
   
• France's aftermarket division for brake pads, discs, and callipers is booming due to a mature vehicle population, coupled with a persistent inclination toward ICE vehicles in the countryside and among business customers. The growth of the aftermarket brake industry is being sustained through 2034 due to local remanufacturing and replacement services which were strengthened by Brexit and increased supply chain fragmentation.
   
• For instance, in June 2024, Valeo launched its most comprehensive range of brake pads for electric and hybrid vehicles on the European, including French, markets with 222 SKUs that offer coverage for 92% of EV/PHEV models in the region advanced materials: The pads are made of carbon-ceramic composites which reduce brake dust by 20-25% and decrease noise/vibration while increasing lifespan, addressing the sustainability and air quality concerns of cities.
   

The Europe automotive brake market in the Spain is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• Spain has integrated the network of OEMs, suppliers, and component makers; thus, establishing itself as one of the leading car producers in Europe. Foreign corporations, especially in the segments of passenger and light commercial vehicles, use Spain as a manufacturing hub. This local infrastructure encourages investment competition in the systems and local trade manufacture of brake parts. 
   
• Spain is significantly improving its adoption rate for electric and hybrid vehicles, aiming to reduce emissions and advance clean mobility. These new vehicles require advanced brakes such as regenerative or brake-by-wire systems and low-emission friction materials. The infrastructure being established for electric vehicles is increasing attention towards research and production facilities, thus fuelling growth in the market. 
   
• In Spain, aftermarket services have evolved to include the servicing of brake pads and discs, as well as calliper overhauls and brake fluid servicing. Moreover, the aftermarket services for hybrid and internal combustion engine vehicles are bolstered by the digitization of parts distribution and e-commerce. 
   
• ADAS is now fully embedded into the Spanish automotive production system, alongside responsive and adaptive braking systems, as a cornerstone of production modernization. There is an industry-wide demand from OEMs and brake system manufacturers to automate and enhance brake system functionality owing to the market need for advanced AEB, ESC, and collision mitigation systems.
   
• For instance, in December 2024, Barcelona’s Metro Charge program recycles braking energy from trains to power subsurface stations and electric vehicle charging stations located above ground. Although concentrated on public transportation, this underscores the increasing awareness regarding regenerative braking’s energy utility in Spain and it dovetails well with developments in the automotive industry toward integrated dual-function braking systems and energy recuperation in electric vehicles.
   

Europe Automotive Brake Market Share

Top 7 companies of the Europe automotive brake industry are Robert Bosch, Continental, ZF Friedrichshafen, Knorr-Bremse, Valeo, Aisin Corporation and Hitachi Astemo around 53% of the market in 2024.
 

• Aisin Corporation focuses on parts and components for the automotive drivetrain, brake systems, and chassis systems. Aisin is one of the world’s leaders in the manufacturing of hydraulic braking systems, master cylinders, and calipers. They are also part of Toyota Group. Aisin balances both innovation and sustainability across all markets, servicing conventional and electric vehicles. 
   
• Continental is the German leader in automotive technology with offerings in advanced brake systems, electronics, and safety solutions. The company’s strong R&D invests in adaptive braking systems, and ABS, ESC, and brake-by-wire technologies. It serves both the OEM and aftermarket segments and is aligned with trends in vehicle electrification, autonomous driving, and connected vehicles throughout Europe and the rest of the world. 
   
• A subsidiary of Honda, Hitachi Astemo is a Japanese company specializing in mobility solutions. Formed from Hitachi Automotive Systems, the company designs and manufactures high-performance braking systems such as regenerative and electronic brakes. Their focus includes ADAS, increased vehicle electrification, and expansion into new markets. 
   
• Knorr-Bremse AG specializes in pneumatic and electronic systems that offer brake controls for transport systems which are critical for operational efficiency and safety. In addition to being the first in the field, the company now responds to changes in the industry by investing in advanced mobility, vehicle electrification, and autonomy. 
   
• Bosch is one of the biggest auto parts manufacturers with products like ABS, ESP, and regenerative braking systems. Together with Germany’s fame for mechanical prowess, Bosch has an automotive network that integrates software and hardware. It serves all vehicle types, including EVs and continues to be a major participant in the software-defined vehicle market. 
   
• Valeo designs thermal and electrical parts for automobiles and from France is concentrated on the compact lightweight braking systems for hybrids and electric vehicles. ADAS eco-innovation for low emission greenhouse gases drives Valeo’s initiatives towards smart sustainability. 
   
• ZF is a German multinational company known for its sophisticated driveline and braking systems, steer and complex branded systems. ZF also designs advanced systems like electro-mechanical brakes, within safety systems and regenerative systems for electrified drivetrains. It supplies global OEMs with automation, software, and system integration for the development of fully interconnected automated vehicles.
   

Europe Automotive Brake Market Companies

Major players operating in the Europe automotive brake industry are:

• Aisin
• Akebono Brake Industry
• Brembo
• Continental
• Hitachi Astemo
• Knorr-Bremse
• Robert Bosch
• Textar
• Valeo
• ZF Friedrichshafen

The Europe automotive brake market is projected to grow further with the adoption of safety standards, increasing adoption of electric vehicles, and modernization of braking technologies. Euro NCAP and EU policies require the vehicle manufacturers to equip all vehicles with advanced braking systems such as ABS, ESC, and AEB. This furthers the OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers’ innovation and rivalry race. The European nations achieving targets for carbon neutrality alongside zero-emission mobility increase the need for advanced light-weight eco-friendly braking components throughout the forecast period.
 

France, UK, and Germany are the leaders in the regional brake market due to the strong      automotive manufacturing base, and R&D spending. Germany is further reinforced with leading firms such as Bosch, Continental, and ZF who are developing brake-by-wire and regenerative braking systems. The UK is positioned as an emerging hub due to the rapid adoption of electric vehicles and government support for low-emission technologies. Observed trends depict strong and diverse regional structure featuring traditional hydraulic and futuristic braking systems in ICE, hybrid, and EV vehicles.
 

The shift towards software defined vehicles and their interfacing with ADAS systems is costly and intensive in labor effort due to the specialization required. At the same time, these challenges drive novel innovations and new strategic partnerships, as well as growth in manufacturing within the region. Europe continues to lead the world in mobility innovation, but the brake sector is critical for advanced vehicle safety, meeting regulations, controlling emissions, integration into the vehicle ecosystem, and thus, will strengthen its position as a core component for the automotive industry in Europe.
 

Europe Automotive Brake Industry News

• In April 2025, Continental Automotive and semiconductor startup NOVOSENSE Microelectronics expanded their partnership to incorporate system basis chips and low-side switches into Continental’s safety-critical modules. While not exclusive to brakes, this cooperation greatly augments the electronic brain overseeing the controlled hydraulic or electro-hydraulic braking systems in modern vehicles, thereby improving safety, system efficiency, and reliability.
   
• In January 2025, the engineers from Bosch were able to conduct public road testing on their new hydraulic brake-by-wire system for over 3300 km including a route to the Arctic Circle in winter conditions. This marks the first instance of real-world deployment of the system outside of test tracks.
   
• In September 2024, due to problems with the Continental AG braking systems, BMW issued a substantial recall that impacted roughly 1.5 million of their vehicles. The financial impact of this recall is forecasted to be nearly $1.1 billion, thus greatly affecting the company’s profits. As a result, BMW's stock price has suffered a sharp decline.
   
• In June 2024, the collaboration that spans over 75 years centered on the creation of next generation brake fluids for ESP, ABS, and other emerging electronic braking systems. Clariant provides electro-hydraulic brake fluids with advanced specialty chemicals and, in turn, Continental provides tailored brake fluids, enabling software-defined brake architectures to function better.
   

The Europe automotive brake market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue (USD million) and shipments (units) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments.

Market, By Brake

• Disc brakes
• Drum brakes

Market, By Component

• Brake calipers
• Brake pads/shoes
• Brake rotors/discs
• Brake drums
• Master cylinder
• Brake lines & hoses
• Brake boosters

Market, By Technology

• Hydraulic braking system
• Electromechanical system
• Pneumatic braking system

Market, By Vehicle

• Passenger cars 
  • Sedans
  • Hatchbacks
  • SUV 
• Commercial vehicles 
  • Light Commercial vehicles
  • Medium Commercial vehicles
  • Heavy Commercial vehicles

Market, By Propulsion

• ICE
• Electric
  • PHEV
  • HEV
  • FCEV
  • BEV

Market, By Sales channel

• OEMs
• Aftermarket

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Nordics
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
  • Southeast Asia
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina 
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa