A German automotive supplier, **Schaeffler**, has developed a new braking system that eliminates the fine particle emissions caused by traditional braking, according to a statement released on August 12, 2026. The system is designed to meet the upcoming **Euro 7** anti-pollution standard, which the European Union plans to enforce for all new vehicles starting November 29, 2026. This standard is notable because it is the first to regulate emissions from braking and tire wear, not just exhaust gases from engines. According to the European Commission's **Joint Research Centre** (JRC), braking-related emissions—caused by the wear of brake pads—account for 55% of fine particle emissions from road transport. While the process is well understood, effective solutions have been lacking. **Schaeffler** claims to have solved this issue with its **wet leaf brake system**, which produces no brake dust, operates silently, and requires no maintenance. The system uses a sealed design, with all components—including the brake, actuator, oil, and cooling circuit—enclosed in a single airtight housing. The key innovation is that wear particles and brake dust are trapped inside the oil bath instead of being released into the environment or onto wheels. **Schaeffler** states that this design completely eliminates fine particle emissions from braking. To test the system's effectiveness, **Schaeffler** used it during a weekend of racing at the famous **Nürburgring** circuit as part of the **DTM** (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters) competition, fitting it on an **Audi R8 LMS GT2**. Although the system is still a prototype, the company is exploring its mass production and potential market launch. Initially, the innovation is expected to be introduced on small city cars, both traditional and electric. The system could be particularly beneficial for electric vehicles, as their mechanical brakes are often used less frequently due to **regenerative braking**, which can cause unwanted corrosion and rust issues that the new system aims to prevent.