Range Update
In our April Update, we have released a Brake Caliper for the rear axle of the 2017 generation Tesla Model 3 (Item 425301).
Tesla, known for its battery electric vehicles (BEVs), is one of the most valuable companies in the world in terms of market capitalization. Tesla started the production of its first car model, the Roadster sports car, back in 2008. In 2017, the company introduced a mid-size sedan with a fastback body style, the Model 3. Did you know that the Model 3 was the world’s top selling plug-in electric car for over 3 years? After 2020, the Tesla Model Y took over the top spot in the rankings. The introduction of the Model 3 was an important moment for the relatively new car building company Tesla. Many regarded this model as the test case for Tesla’s ability to mass produce electric cars. In the first weekend Tesla received 325.000 reservations on the Model 3. In June 2021, the Model 3 became the first electric car to pass global sales of 1 million. Click on the button below to see the full Range Update!
Item 425301
Brake Caliper Item 425301 is available now in our Webshop. You can register yourself by using the square red buttons on the right side if this page. After doing this, you can login to our webshop to see all the products and prices. If you already have an account, you can simply login.
Range Update
In our March Update, we have released a Brake Disc for the 2017 MAN TGE Van Series (Item 18842).
The MAN TGE is a light commercial vehicle to fill in MAN’s portfolio, developed as a restyled version of the second generation Volkswagen Crafter. It was unveiled in 2017 to allow MAN Truck and Bus to compete in the Van Segment and create a wider range of products beneath their large truck offerings. The MAN TGE is built in Września, Poland, the same place as the Volkswagen Crafter. Did you know that both vans are made in the same factory as Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles?
Brake Disc item 18842 is available now in the Webshop. You can register yourself by using the square red buttons on the right side if this page. After doing this, you can login to our webshop to see all the products and prices. If you already have an account, you can simply login.
Click on the button below to see the full Range Update!
Range Update
In our February Update, you’ll find Brake Discs (Item 18889) for the rear of the Toyota Yaris 1.6 4WD GR. Toyota’s “Gazoo Racing” division has produced standout models like the Corolla, GT86, and Supra, designed for performance enthusiasts. One of their latest creations is the Toyota Yaris GR 4WD, which combines rally heritage with modern engineering. Launched in 2020, the GR Yaris quickly became a dominant force in the hot hatch category, offering exceptional agility and thrilling performance. With over 18,000 units sold in Europe, the GR Yaris proves popular with those who seek both performance and practicality. Its all-wheel-drive system and compact design deliver a unique driving experience, bringing rally sport excitement to everyday roads. With Toyota’s commitment to motorsport excellence, the GR Yaris stands as a testament to their ability to create cars that push the boundaries of what is possible, both on and off the racetrack.
Find Brake Discs for the Toyota Yaris in our latest Range Update. Full newsletter available for subscribers on February 28.
COMPARISON
The manufacturing of Brake Pads involves forming the friction material into a solid and durable unit that adheres securely to a backing plate. Two primary methods are used: Hot Press and Cold Press, each with its advantages and disadvantages:
- Press Forming (Hot Press Method)
A mixture of friction materials is compressed at 1000 bar in a mold onto the metal backing plate. The molded pads are heated in a specialized oven at 150°C. This curing process binds the materials together into a single, solid unit. The high pressure and heat reduce the amount of resin required in the mixture, resulting in a denser and more robust brake pad. The final product exhibits greater thermal stability and resistance to glazing, creating better quality. The higher pressure and curing time make the hot press method more labor- and energy-intensive.
- Press Curing (Cold Press Method)
A mixture is pressed at a 400 bar in a mold onto the backing plate. Molds including pads are heated up to 150 C. Although this is a quick production process, more resin is needed. This results in a lower quality pad and a higher risk of glazing. That’s why ABS Brake Pads are made according to the hot press method, called Press Forming. Where applicable, they comply with European ECE-R90 regulations for friction materials.
SPECIAL TREATMENTS
To ensure the best performance, ABS Brake Pads go through additional treatments. Each step is designed to enhance specific aspects of the pad’s functionality:
- Scorching
During the scorching process, the top layer of resin on the brake pad’s surface is burned off. It accelerates the bedding-in process, allowing the pads to work effectively in less time. It also reduces the likelihood of brake fading during high-temperature operation, ensuring consistent performance. Scorching also helps the pads achieve better initial friction, improving safety.
- Chamfering
Chamfering involves cutting the edges of the pad’s friction surface at an angle, leading to quicker run-in, meaning that the pads make smoother initial contact with the brake disc. It also reduces noise as it minimizes vibration and reduces noise during braking, especially in high-stress scenarios.
- Milling Grooves
Grooves are milled into the friction surface of the pads to improve heat distribution during braking, which helps maintain consistent performance and extends the lifespan of the pads. It also reduces tension in the friction material, preventing cracks or damage under heavy use.
- Mounting Shims, Clips, and Indicators
Additional components like shims and clips are mounted onto the brake pads to reduce noise and vibration and provide wear indicators for the drivers.
Range Update
In this month’s update, we’re introducing Splash Panels (11577 & 11578) designed for the rear of the Nissan X-Trail and Renault Koleos. As is common in today’s automotive industry, these models share the same platform, ensuring compatibility.
The partnership between Renault and Nissan dates back to 1999, when Renault stepped in to support Nissan during financial difficulties. This collaboration strengthened over the years, and in 2016, Nissan further expanded its influence by acquiring a stake in Mitsubishi.
Today, the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance ranks among the top three OEMs globally, solidifying its position as a leader in the automotive market.
Splash Panels play a significant role in relation to the braking system of a car. Their primary function is not to directly enhance the braking performance, but the product ensures that no dirt enters the brake system and also helps as a heat protector for other parts of the car. The active ABS range consists of over 520 articles.
Order in October!
Don’t let the rain drive you crazy or brake your plans! This October, we’ve got you covered – literally. Every shipment from the 21st until the 25th of October contains an exclusive ABS umbrella! Make sure to get yours while supplies last!
Price change
How Freight Costs are driving up Prices
As you know, at ABS we are always committed to delivering the best value and service to our partners. Like many others, we were also hoping for more stable market conditions in 2024, but unfortunately, this is still not the case.
The ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the global energy crisis, have placed significant upward pressure on costs across multiple sectors. Transport and freight costs in Asia remain our biggest challenge, and unfortunately, we have little control over them.
Since May 2024, these costs have been rising steadily. In July 2024, the SCFI (Shanghai Containerized Freight Index) reached 5,000 USD, representing a 400% increase compared to container prices at the beginning of the year. In addition to the overall demand and supply imbalance driving up prices, instability in the Middle East is affecting the Suez Canal, forcing vessels to take longer and more expensive detours around Africa for safety reasons.
Rising energy costs
Rising energy costs are worsening the situation, pushing supply chain expenses even higher. General inflation continues to impact the cost of goods and services worldwide, creating an environment where operating costs are rising faster than anticipated.
Given these challenges regarding transport, energy, and overall supply chain costs, we are forced to implement a price increase of 3.4% starting November 1, 2024. This adjustments is necessary to maintain the high level of service and value that you expect from us.
For now, we will continue to monitor the situation closely and take appropriate action when needed.
Range Update
In this month’s update you will find a wheel bearing for the Opel Karl ( 201846).
The Karl replaced the Agila in 2015 and production of the Karl itself ended in 2019. It was built on the same platform as the Chevrolet Spark and was sold in the UK as Vauxhall Viva.
The Karl was named after Adam Opel’s eldest son.
The Opel family started their business in sewing machines and later moved on to the production of bicycles.
Adam Opel never lived to see the automobiles built by the company he founded. He died in 1895. His will set up a new organization for the company, in which his widow Sophie held the primary interest and his two eldest sons had lesser shares.