Impacts of Automation and Electrification Trends on Pneumatic Braking Systems of Commercial Vehicles

Abstract

Historically, the demand for advanced technology, efficiency, and safety has been a primary driving force in the evolution of commercial vehicles, particularly with respect to braking systems. More recently, the increasing levels of vehicle autonomy and electrification have emerged as irreversible trends, significantly accelerating the development of new functionalities and innovative electrical/electronic [E/E] architectures. These advancements are essentially focused on performance optimization, risk mitigation, and enhanced system reliability through the application of functional safety and cybersecurity standards, thereby shaping the current landscape of braking system design. From an efficiency standpoint, braking systems with higher levels of electronic content, functional integration – included with regenerative braking systems - and harmonization have been developed to improve energy efficiency and support global scalability. Concurrently, new system configurations are continuously being introduced to enhance vehicle safety and advanced driver assistance capabilities, in alignment with evolving regulatory requirements and market expectations. This paper evaluates the impacts of automation and electrification on commercial vehicle pneumatic braking systems, focusing on Anti-lock Braking Systems [ABS], Electronic Braking Systems [EBS] and air management platforms. It provides a technical overview of both architectures, assessing their capabilities to meet modern requirements such as integration with advanced vehicle architecture, regenerative braking for electrified applications, and Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems [ADAS] support. The study details the evolution of air management systems, with emphasis on electrified vehicles, including key functions such as air compressor charge control, Air Processing Unit [APU] desiccant regeneration, and electronic control strategies. Additionally, it examines key drivers of braking system evolution, braking system selection considering ADAS regulatory developments, Net Zero strategies, and automation trends. The paper further evaluates compliance with functional safety and cybersecurity standards and assesses the readiness of both platforms for emerging mobility concepts. Finally, it highlights the risks of deploying higher levels of autonomy in heavy-duty towing vehicles when operating with non- ABS semi-trailers, identifying this as a critical area for further investigation.