Akebono Brake wins Auto International award

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. (Nov. 12, 2014) — Akebono Brake Corp. received the Best Overall Import Aftermarket Product award from the Auto International Association (AIA) for its EURO Ultra-Premium ceramic disc brake pads.

“Akebono's EURO Ultra-Premium ceramic disc brake pad line provides auto makers with unprecedented vehicle control and response rates, providing European auto makers with the best application-specific braking solution for each vehicle,” said Ken Selinger, director of aftermarket sales and marketing for Akebono.

“We are honored by this recognition by the Auto International Association and this award is a testament to Akebono's continued focus on delivering the best braking solutions in the world.”

Akebono introduced the EURO line in 2005, claiming it was the first ceramic disc pad designed precisely to address performance-specific requirements of European vehicles, such as NVH, dust and pedal pulsation. Since its inception, more than 1.3 million units have been sold, according to the company.

Akebono said its ceramic braking technology has met the 2021 low-copper requirements under California and Washington restrictions 16 years ahead of regulations.

The EURO line is designed for exclusive use on the following European vehicle applications: Audi, BMW, Fiat, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Porsche, SAAB, VW and Volvo.

AIA winners in the other categories are:

Best Problem-Solver for Import Cars or Trucks:

Dorman Products Inc.: Dorman's Remanufactured Hybrid Drive Battery: 587-001 Gen || Toyota Prius

Best New Tool for Repairs on Import Cars or Trucks:

Redline Detection L.L.C.: Easy INTAKE

Best Performance, Accessory or Functional Fluids for Import Cars or Trucks:

CRP Automotive: Pentosin ATF1 LV

Best New Product for Import Cars or Trucks:

AISIN World Corp. of America: AISIN Inverter Water Pump

Best Packaging of a Product for Import Cars or Trucks:

Bizol German Lubricants: Bizol New Packaging Program: GATP (Green, Allround, Technology and Protect)

Best Merchandising/Advertising of a Product for Import Cars or Trucks:

Denso Corp.: Denso Iridium TT Television Commercial

Best Catalog of a Product for Import Cars or Trucks:

Centric Parts: 2015 Centric Parts Brake Systems Catalog

Best Website Presentation of a Product Line for Import Cars or Trucks:

KYB Americas Corp.

Akebono Brake Corp. parent Akebono Brake Industry Co. Ltd. was founded in 1929. The Akebono Group operates R&D centers in Japan, the U.S., France, United Kingdom, China and ASEAN and recently established a new center in Reims, France. It also has wholly owned or affiliated manufacturing facilities worldwide.

More information about Akebono is on its website.