Electric vehicles (EVs) use a generative braking system, making the physical brake system with pads and discs unnecessary. They are only needed in situations where the vehicle really needs to stop immediately. This makes the brake components on all four tires just add weight and space. Therefore, designers at Mercedes-Benz have created a new brake system specifically for EVs.
The In-Drive Brake system that was developed places a brake disc with a pad directly on the vehicle's driver and motor system. A round disc with a brake pad is placed in a closed shell that is cooled using water. This disc will rotate together with the electric motor. When the vehicle needs to stop immediately, this disc will be pressed against a metal plate.
In-Drive Brake does not require calipers and a complex hydraulic system. The resulting brake powder will not be dispersed into the air because it is closed. According to Mercedes-Benz, this system does not need to be maintained throughout the life of the vehicle and will also not pollute the air.
The advantage is that the brake system no longer needs to be placed on all four vehicle tires and brake noise can be reduced. The resulting vehicles will be lighter and tires with more aerodynamic profiles can be used to increase the efficiency of EV battery use.