Readers Response #4

Brembo GT brakes are high-performance braking systems designed mainly for enthusiasts, racing, and track use (Brembo, n.d.). They are commonly found on high-end models and performance-oriented vehicles, but they can also be purchased as aftermarket kits for those looking to upgrade their vehicle braking system. The kits come in various customisable configurations to suit different vehicles and drivers. Each brake kit typically includes multi-piston aluminium calipers, large two-piece floating ventilated rotors, high-performance brake pads, and installation hardware (Brembo n.d.b).

The use of lightweight aluminium calipers help reduce unsprung weight and improve clamping force, thus improving handling and braking response (Brembo, n.d.b).  The larger, two-piece floating ventilated rotors enhance heat dissipation, which helps to reduce brake fade even in harsh driving conditions (Brembo, n.d.a.). Additionally, Brembo GT brakes come in a variety of colours, adding aesthetic appeal to vehicles. This allows drivers to not only enhance their vehicles braking performance but also add a visual upgrade that complements the vehicle.

For a car enthusiast seeking improved responsiveness and braking performance from a reputable brand, the Brembo GT brakes are a worthwhile upgrade for their standard vehicles despite their high cost.

In terms of performance, brake systems play a crucial role in vehicle safety and handling. To address this, Brembo GT brakes come with multi-piston calipers (4,6 or 8), which improve braking force, resulting in shorter braking distances, especially at higher speeds (Brembo, n.d.b.). In 2022, Automoto.it, an Italian automotive news website, organised a test comparing the stock braking system of a 7th generation Volkswagon Golf R and a Brembo GT system upgrade (Brembo, 2022). Every test showed that the Brembo GT managed to outperform the standard brakes.  Particularly in a braking test from 150 km/h to 0 km/h, when fitted with Brembo GT brakes, the car managed to stop in 81.49m while the standard brakes stopped at 87.77m (Brembo, 2022). This highlights the superior performance of the Brembo system and shows how it can enhance the vehicle's safety, especially when travelling at higher speeds.

Another feature of the Brembo GT is its improved responsiveness over standard braking systems thanks to its two-piece ventilated floating rotors. The two-piece design features an aluminium hub, which makes the rotor 15 to 30% lighter compared to similar dimension solid rotors effectively lowering unsprung weight (Brembo n.d.c.). This reduction in unsprung weight allows the vehicle's suspension to be more effective, improving the overall responsiveness (Valor Offroad, n.d.). The ventilated rotors also have internal vanes that allow air to pass through, allowing them to disperse heat more effectively compared to solid brakes, reducing the risk of brake fade (B for Brakes, 2024). Brake fade occurs when the braking components overheat, decreasing the friction between the rotor and brake pad (Tires Plus, 2019). The reduced risk of brake fade ensures consistent braking performance and improved pedal responsiveness of the vehicle (Brembo, n.d.b.).

Brembo is globally recognised as one of the most reputable brands in the automotive industry. They supply braking systems to many high-performance automakers, such as Ferrari, Lamborghini and Porsche. Brembo's extensive involvement in prestigious motorsports such as MotoGP and Formula One, where its products are both used and tested under extreme conditions, further solidifies its reputation. For the 2024 season, Brembo continues to exclusively provide braking systems to these elite competitions, showcasing their innovative technology and durability (Brembo, 2024). Additionally, Brembo was voted best brake brand for the 11th time in 13 years in the Auto Motor und Sport’s BEST CARS 2024 awards, a testament to its long-standing excellence (Brembo, 2024). This combination of advanced technology, rigorous testing and strong partnerships cements Brembo as a reputable and influential name in the braking industry.

One drawback of the Brembo GT brake is the fact that they are relatively expensive. According to Race Technologies (n.d.a.), the cost of a complete kit can range from $1595 - $5695 USD. Replacement parts such as rotors and brake pads are also typically more expensive when compared to standard replacement parts. Additionally, the cost of labour for the installation of the Brembo GT system may require special skills and tools that can incur a high cost. For the average driver, this expense may not be worth it, especially if they do not require the enhanced braking performance.

In conclusion, upgrading to the Brembo GT brakes not only improves vehicle performance responsiveness but also enhances safety for the driver and passengers. Furthermore, Brembo's reputation for engineering excellence means that drivers can trust its reliability, providing peace of mind, especially in spirited driving. This makes it an undoubtedly worthwhile investment for enthusiasts who take driving seriously, knowing that they are equipped with some of the best braking technology currently available.

 

References:

B for Brakes. (2024). Ventilated brake rotors: Meaning, benefits, lifespan. https://www.bforbrakes.com/ventilatedbrake-rotors-meaning-benefits-lifespan/

Brembo. (n.d.a). B-M braking systems. https://www.brembo.com/en/car/sporting-use/b-m-braking-systems

Brembo. (n.d.b). GT braking systems. https://www.brembo.com/en/car/sporting-use/gt-braking-systems

Brembo. (n.d.c). Two-piece brake discs. https://www.bremboparts.com/europe/en/products/prime/two-pieces-discs

Brembo. (2022) Stock brakes vs Brembo upgrade brakes. What’s the real difference? A test drive with the Golf VII R. https://www.brembo.com/en/company/news/stock-brakes-vs-brembo-upgrade-brakes

Brembo. (2024a). Brembo brakes for all the 2024 formula 1 grid.

https://www.brembo.com/en/company/news/brembo-brakes-for-all-the-2024-formula-1-grid

Brembo. (2024b). Brembo voted best brake brand 2024. https://www.brembo.com/en/company/news/brembo-voted-best-brake-brand-2024

Race Technologies. (n.d.a). Brembo performance systems. https://www.racetechnologies.com/product-line/brembo-performance-systems

Race Technologies. (n.d.b). What are the benefits and features of the Brembo GT brake system? https://racetechnologies.com/article/what-are-benefits-and-features-brembo-gt-brake-system

Tires Plus. (2019). What is brake fade? https://www.tiresplus.com/blog/brakes/what-is-brake-fade/

Valor Off-Road. (n.d). How wheel weight impacts your vehicle. https://www.valoroffroad.com/blogs/the-source/how-wheel-weight-impacts-your-vehicle?srsltid=AfmBOor4NuccBAjeAGXAvKLOa25tGBG9aP2cXtF5raKkIzen_tnr6sf1