As the world moves toward more software-defined vehicles with connected technologies, automakers are carefully examining and working to improve components that have long been expected to be on every model. This, combined with new sustainability standards, is the impetus to move towards a zero-emissions future, from manufacturing to tailpipes to brake pads and everything in between.

Dust from brake systems may be a bigger pollutant than exhaust emissions and cause more damage to the environment and people, a recent study by University of California, Irvine researchers suggested.

“Some studies have shown that brake particles have a similar effect on lung inflammation as particles from diesel and wood burning, which form free radicals in lung fluids. These particles can be very small – 500 of these accumulated particles would cover the thickness of a strand of your hair – so once are released into the air, large areas could be affected… Given their increasing dominance, potential health and environmental justice impacts, it is imperative that we control emissions of these particles at the source,” he said.

The operation of the new mechanical brake relies on an operation similar to a traditional brake setup, only the disc is compressed on both sides to slow the vehicle down. The entire unit would be developed to last 15 years of use and abuse, which Mercedes-Benz considers the lifespan of a vehicle.

And it enables strong and consistent braking that doesn’t falter even under heavy loads. Brake noise becomes a thing of the past.

With the small amount of dust that the mechanism creates, no particulate emissions would enter the atmosphere and collect in a sump at the bottom of the device, which can be emptied at the end of the vehicle’s life.

As there would be no need for wheel gaps, which are traditionally used to aid brake cooling, this innovation allows for the creation of rigid wheel structures that would aid the vehicle’s aerodynamics. Without a brake system on the wheels, the car corners lighter, allowing for a smoother ride.

The new braking technology is still under development and an official implementation schedule has not been released.