FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. – November 4, 2026 – Akebono Brake Corporation, a leading manufacturer of Ultra-Premium ceramic brake pads, is proud to announce that its EURO® Ultra-Premium Ceramic Brake Pad line has been named the 2026 Best Overall Product Line in the Import Vehicle Community Awards at AAPEX 2026.
This recognition highlights Akebono’s continued commitment to delivering innovative braking solutions that combine exceptional performance, advanced ceramic friction technology and extensive coverage for European vehicle applications.
With 180 part numbers covering more than 46 million vehicles in operation (VIO) across the United States, Akebono EURO provides comprehensive coverage for the European aftermarket. Engineered with application-specific, 100% ceramic friction formulations, the product line delivers the braking characteristics European vehicle owners expect while offering significant advantages in cleanliness, durability and overall driving comfort.
“We are honored to receive this recognition from the Import Vehicle Community,” said Tommy Rivera, Director of Aftermarket at Akebono Brake Corporation. “Our EURO product line reflects our commitment to developing premium braking solutions that meet the unique demands of European vehicles. This award reinforces the value of our advanced ceramic technology and our dedication to providing distributors, technicians and drivers with products they can trust.”
Unlike traditional metallic friction materials commonly found in European original equipment brake pads, Akebono EURO’s advanced ceramic formulations virtually eliminate brake dust while maintaining exceptional stopping performance. The result is cleaner wheels, quieter operation, smoother braking and reduced wear, enhancing the overall ownership experience.
Comparative product testing further demonstrates EURO’s performance advantages, including reduced noise, lower brake pad wear, significantly less rotor wear and improved braking smoothness compared to aftermarket competitors. These benefits help support longer component life, improved customer satisfaction and greater value throughout the brake service process.
Beyond performance, the EURO line incorporates application-specific engineering to meet the braking requirements of individual European vehicle platforms. Pad wear sensors are included where applicable, and the line’s friction formulations carry the N Leaf Mark designation, reflecting Akebono’s attention to applicable copper requirements.
The 2026 Import Vehicle Community Award further strengthens Akebono’s position as a leader in Ultra-Premium ceramic brake technology and reinforces its ongoing commitment to innovation, quality and performance in the automotive aftermarket.
For more information about Akebono EURO Ultra-Premium Ceramic Brake Pads and the company’s complete product offering, visit www.akebonobrakes.com.
About Akebono Brake Corporation
Akebono Brake Corporation, North America’s leading supplier of advanced braking systems and pioneer of ceramic friction technology. A leader in ceramic friction material development and production, with a focus on noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), analysis and control. Akebono sells Ultra-Premium Disc Brake Pads, Made in the USA for the Automotive Aftermarket under the brands ProACT, EURO, and Severe Duty.
For more information, visit www.akebonobrakes.com
About Akebono Brake Industry Co, Ltd.
Akebono Brake Industry Co., Ltd. (TSE: 7238), founded in 1929, is a world leader in advanced brake and friction material development and production. The Akebono Group operates R&D centers and manufacturing facilities worldwide, including in Japan, the United States, Europe and Asia.
For more information, visit www.akebono-brake.com/english/index.html.