ZF prepares for the introduction of the Euro 7 emissions standard with new-generation air disc brake

ZF presented a new-generation air disc brake for heavy commercial vehicles, alongside a number of other developments, at the IAA Transportation 2026 exhibition held in Hanover between 15 and 20 September. The component, marketed under the MAXX Uniper name and expected to enter production from 2027, made its debut as part of preparations for the Euro 7 emissions standard, and promises numerous maintenance benefits in addition to more environmentally friendly operation.

Representing the latest generation of ZF’s MAXX air disc brake platform, the MAXX Uniper is based on the German component manufacturer’s pioneering single-piston air brake solution, developed more than 30 years ago, of which more than 12 million units have already been sold worldwide. According to the manufacturer, the new disc brake, capable of generating braking torque of up to 30,000 Nm, uses a proven bi-directional adjuster mechanism that has been tested and validated under stringent environmental conditions. This regulates the running clearance between the brake pad and the rotor, helping ensure even brake pad wear and reducing the risk of overadjustment.

The system’s modular design enables vehicle manufacturers to use a single pneumatic disc brake concept across their entire global heavy commercial vehicle range, thereby reducing the efforts and costs associated with application and release. Thanks to its compact design, the MAXX Uniper uses fewer components than its predecessor, promising more reliable operation and easier maintenance – the latter also supported by the new carrier and brake pad system, which simplifies brake pad replacement. According to ZF, the brake disc’s special coating can reduce emissions of fine particulate matter from brake wear – solid particles with a diameter of less than 10 microns (PM10) – by up to 65%, helping to reduce the environmental impact of road transport, while the system delivers consistently high braking performance even under the most demanding operating conditions.

For operators, in addition to the already mentioned ease of brake pad replacement, the optional plug-and-play continuous wear sensor will provide a further advantage. The replaceable sensor, which requires no calibration, is likewise designed to reduce maintenance requirements and increase vehicle uptime, while the robust sealing effectively protects the brake from dirt and debris even in demanding operating environments, according to the manufacturer.

„MAXX Uniper brings together what the commercial vehicle industry needs for the EURO 7 era: reduced brake-dust emissions, powerful braking performance and proven reliability. It demonstrates how ZF is translating evolving regulatory requirements into practical technology that creates value for vehicle manufacturers and fleets” – said Pawel Porczynski, head of the Chassis Solutions business unit within ZF’s Commercial Vehicle Solutions (CVS) division, summarising the advantages of the new product.

Cover image: ZF Friedrichshafen AG