The Overlooked Auto Component That Might Make An Astonishing Comeback Due To New European Regulations | Carscoops

      The classic design of enclosed brake drums helps to prevent brake dust from escaping and could assist automakers in complying with the EU's new brake emission regulations.

      As of 2025, the formerly common brake drum has nearly disappeared, and "fade" is a term that many drivers of classic cars with drum brakes know well, especially during intense driving on winding downhill roads. Ironically, one reason for the fading performance under severe conditions is also why drum brakes might see a resurgence.

      Disc brakes replaced four-wheel drum brakes on most performance cars during the 1960s and became standard on regular vehicles by the 1970s, leading to the extinction of front drums by the mid-1980s. However, they remain in use on the rear axles of some basic, lightweight, low-powered vehicles because they are cost-effective and the braking requirements are minimal. Some experts believe that more vehicles could transition back to drum systems in the future.

      Regulatory Considerations

      The new Euro 7 regulations set to be implemented in November 2026 are influencing this potential shift. Although automakers managed to mitigate some proposed stringent tailpipe rules, the Euro 7 regulations place significant emphasis on emissions from other parts of the vehicle, particularly tires and brakes.

      Manufacturers and suppliers are exploring various methods to reduce brake emissions, the most straightforward being the adoption of new brake discs and pads. Possible solutions include applying a coating to steel brake rotors and using brake pads that have a slower wear rate or carbon discs like those found in supercars. Although these options can be costly, they have the potential to cut emissions by up to 81 percent.

      The Importance of Drum Brakes

      Another alternative is to reintroduce brake drums. Brake drums operate by pushing a pair of brake "shoes" against the inner surface of a solid drum. While this enclosed design can lead to brake overheating and fade during heavy use, it also contains most of the dust generated from wear within the drum, minimizing its release into the environment.

      Additional advantages of this technology include prevention of brake dust damaging expensive alloy wheels, lower production costs and weight, and reduced drag when brakes are not engaged.

      A Potential Resurgence

      Auto parts manufacturer Tenneco, which produces copper-free brake pads capable of reducing PM10 emissions by 60 percent, has noted a slowdown in the rapid decline of brake drum demand. Might this decline be reversed?

      Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids, which can deliver braking force through regenerative methods and depend less on traditional friction brakes, might be well-suited for rear drum systems despite the potential added weight. Volkswagen is already utilizing them in models such as the ID.3 and ID.4 (including GTX variants), and the upcoming emissions regulations may lead to a broader adoption of this retro technology by other brands.