FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. — Akebono Brake Corp. congratulates General Motors on receiving the Motor Trend North American Truck of the Year award for the 2015 Chevrolet Colorado. The award-winning truck is equipped with foundation brake components provided by Akebono, which improve brake performance, pedal feel and reduce noise and vibration, the company said.
“We congratulate our friends at GM for this great achievement with Colorado,” said Eric Roszman, vice president, research and development, Akebono Brake Corp. “It is an honor for Akebono to team up with GM on this award-winning vehicle and be a part of their re-entry into the midsize truck category.”
Akebono collaborated with GM on the development of the Colorado’s foundation braking components, including calipers and brake pads. The front wheels of the Colorado feature opposed piston calipers supplied by Akebono. By utilizing an opposed piston caliper, the team reduced brake drag while improving brake pedal feel.
The four-wheel-disc brakes on the truck feature Akebono brake pads made of low-copper, non-asbestos friction material. This is the same friction material supplied by Akebono for use on last year’s North American Truck of the Year, the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado, and provides exemplary performance, long life and ultra-low noise and brake dust. The low copper levels in the friction formulation meet future state-mandated restrictions on the use of copper, slated to go into effect in January 2021.
These components were developed in conjunction with GM at Akebono’s research and development facility in Farmington Hills, Mich., and are manufactured in the United States.
Akebono continues to be a global leader in providing brake components that exceed original equipment manufacturer (OEM) requirements and satisfy new vehicle customers. Its products are factory-installed on more than 270 models and have built a strong reputation for industry leading performance for noise, brake dust and lining life. In the aftermarket, Akebono is the OEM brand of choice for brakes.
