Bosch Wins Award for Hand-Controlled Braking System

Bosch Motorsport has received the Don Burgoon Most Innovative Product in Motorsport of the Year Award for its hand-controlled electric braking system. The award was presented during the World Motorsport Symposium held in London on November 26. This honor recognizes innovations and groundbreaking technologies that contribute to the evolution of motorsports. Bosch’s technology stands out for enhancing accessibility, allowing drivers with disabilities to compete on equal footing.

Key Highlights:

Award received for a hand-controlled electric braking system.
Recognized during the World Motorsport Symposium in London.
The system was designed specifically for paralyzed race driver Robert Wickens.
Bosch’s Electronic Brake System (EBS) technology adapted for use in motorsport.

Bosch Motorsport’s hand-controlled electric braking system was specifically developed to meet the needs of Canadian race driver Robert Wickens, who has been paralyzed from the waist down since an accident in 2018. The new system allows Wickens to control both the accelerator and brake pedals with his hands, addressing the unique challenges he faces in competitive racing. Previous solutions did not adequately manage the high functional demands of motorsports, necessitating a new approach.

To develop this advanced braking solution, Bosch Motorsport utilized its existing Electronic Brake System (EBS) module, originally used in the Le Mans Daytona Hybrid (LMDh) class. The system features a trusted controls platform and display to create a robust and effective solution. This technology provides Wickens with the sensitive brake control and fast reaction times required during races, enhancing his competitive performance. In addition, the built-in diagnostics ensure simple and reliable functional testing of the system, increasing safety and usability.

The award, presented by an international panel of motorsport experts, recognizes Bosch’s dedication to safety, performance, and sustainability in racing. Ingo Mauel, head of Bosch Motorsport, expressed his delight with the recognition: “I am absolutely delighted that our development is able to impress the jury of the World Motorsport Symposium. Components and systems for motorsports from Bosch not only help countless racing teams around the world win their races. They also stand for a high level of safety and more sustainability in motorsports. This is how we are also supporting the future feasibility and acceptance of racing events worldwide.”

With over 120 years of tradition in motorsports, Bosch continues to be a major player in the industry. The company develops and distributes complete electronics systems and components for use in race cars, supporting some of the most significant racing series worldwide as a partner, supplier, and sponsor. Bosch’s innovations continue to drive progress in the racing community, both in terms of performance and accessibility.