01 Growing Aftermarket Demand The aftermarket for brake friction products is experiencing significant growth due to its cost-effectiveness compared to original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. Consumers and repair shops increasingly favor aftermarket options, not only for their affordability but also for their wide availability. This has driven a surge in demand, particularly as vehicle owners become more aware of the importance of regular maintenance to ensure safety and optimal performance.Additionally, rising vehicle longevity and increased focus on reducing overall vehicle ownership costs are pushing drivers to opt for high-quality aftermarket solutions. The Automotive Component Manufacturers Association (ACMA) reported a significant export opportunity for India, valuing the sector at over USD 35 billion, with notable growth in the aftermarket sector.This highlights the expanding global potential for aftermarket brake friction products, driven by both consumer demand and the growing global vehicle fleet. As vehicles remain in service longer, aftermarket demand is expected to rise further.
01 Increasing Vehicle Production across the Globe The global automotive industry is expanding rapidly, particularly in emerging markets like China, India, Brazil, and Southeast Asia. Rising disposable incomes, accelerated urbanization, and the availability of more affordable vehicles in these regions are driving significant growth in vehicle sales. This surge in vehicle production directly boosts the demand for brake friction products, essential components in both new vehicle manufacturing and the aftermarket. Since each new vehicle requires a full set of brake friction components, the rising sales volumes have a direct impact on market growth.
01 Shift toward Electric Vehicles (evs) The growing shift toward electric vehicles (EVs) presents a challenge for the market. While EVs still utilize friction brakes, their regenerative braking systems designed to recover energy during braking substantially reduce the wear and reliance on traditional brake components. As the adoption of EVs accelerates globally, the demand for conventional brake friction products may see a decline, potentially dampening market growth in the long term.
01 Innovations in Friction Reduction Innovations in friction reduction are creating significant opportunities for both emerging startups and established industry players. Breakthroughs in advanced lubricants, friction-reducing coatings, and smart materials are revolutionizing brake systems enhancing efficiency and durability. These innovations help minimize wear and energy loss, ultimately extending the lifespan of brake components and improving overall vehicle performance. The growing focus on sustainability and energy efficiency has made these advancements highly attractive across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and industrial machinery.Startups are spearheading the development of cutting-edge solutions, such as high-performance brake components with enhanced longevity, while established companies are incorporating these technologies into their existing product lines.
June 2026 Rane (Madras) Limited signed a Business Transfer Agreement to acquire the friction business of Hindustan Composites Ltd. for an enterprise value of ₹370 crore. The acquisition includes the COMPO brand, two manufacturing facilities in Maharashtra, and expands Rane's portfolio of brake pads, brake linings, brake blocks, clutch facings, and industrial friction products. The transaction strengthens Rane's manufacturing scale, R&D capabilities, and distribution network.
June 2026 Brembo and Ningbo SAFE Brake Systems formed a joint venture, BRSF Active Safety Solutions, to manufacture motorcycle anti-lock braking systems (ABS) at a new facility in Chakan, India. The collaboration expands Brembo's braking technology ecosystem and complements its friction product portfolio for the rapidly growing two-wheeler market.
May 2026 Suprajit Engineering expanded its braking solutions portfolio by strengthening its braking and brake release systems business, including friction materials such as brake shoes and brake pads, through product and manufacturing capability enhancements aimed at automotive and railway applications.