Sign up for our weekly email to stay on top of the latest news and insights!
Delphi has excelled in recent original equipment (OE) independent braking tests, showcasing exceptional performance across various key metrics. The rigorous testing compared Delphi’s non-asbestos organic (NAO) ceramic and low metallic pads with six top-tier brands, highlighting Delphi’s superiority in dust emission, noise levels, and pedal consistency.
Key Highlights
- Outstanding Performance: Delphi’s NAO pads surpassed premium competitors in minimizing brake dust emissions, significantly reducing wear and environmental impact.
- Noise Reduction: Achieved a remarkable 9.8 noise index, with special noise-absorbing underlayers reducing noise by 83% and heat transfer by up to 22%.
- Pedal Consistency: Demonstrated zero deviation in brake pedal feel, stroke, and initial response, ensuring predictable and reliable braking.
- Industry Leadership: As a tier-1 OE manufacturer, Delphi’s brake pad components meet the highest standards of performance, consistency, and longevity.
Delphi’s testing was conducted using four Mercedes A-class vehicles in Mojacar, Spain, known for its ideal testing conditions with 3,180 hours of sunshine annually and minimal rainfall. Each vehicle traveled 4,000 km on a dry 200 km circuit combining mountainous and urban driving conditions.
“We’re proud to lead the industry with braking products that not only meet but exceed the highest standards,” said Carl Lester, Global Product Line Manager at Delphi. “These results are a testament to the quality and reliability of Delphi brakes.”

Dust Emission Testing
In the dust emission tests, Delphi’s NAO pads emerged as the best, outperforming all premium competitors. “This translates to less wear on the brakes, reduced environmental impact, and significant cost savings for vehicle owners,” noted Carl. “Notably, Delphi’s low metallic pads outperformed several premium brands, producing half the dust.”

Noise Testing
Delphi brake pads also excelled in noise testing, achieving an impressive 9.8 noise index. “Delphi brake pads benefit from a special noise-absorbing 3mm underlayer,” said Carl. “It reduces noise above 70db by 83 per cent and heat transfer to the brake fluid by up to 22 per cent, preventing it from boiling and helping to maintain effective braking.”

Pedal Consistency
In pedal consistency tests, Delphi’s brake pads delivered zero deviation in brake pedal feel, stroke, and initial response. “Braking consistency is key to driver confidence, which is why the feel of the pedal underfoot should be predictable and reliable,” said Carl. “Delphi had the most consistent results with zero deviations across the board.”
As a tier-1 OE manufacturer, Delphi brake pad components are designed, manufactured, and tested to meet the highest standards of performance, consistency, and longevity.
For further information, including the latest announcements on first-to-market brake pads and discs, visit Delphi Auto Parts.
Subscribe Today!
Sign up for our weekly eNewsletter and get a free copy of our quarterly digital magazine.
