TROY, Mich. — Meritor has announced its Q Plus S-Cam brakes are fully compliant with the new FMVSS 121 stopping distance requirement in the US.

Phase One of new regulation went into effect Aug. 1 and calls for a loaded Class 8 tandem axle tractor to stop in 250 ft. from 60 mph, down from a previous 355-ft. allowance.

“It’s a real benefit for vehicle manufacturers to meet the 30% reduced stopping requirement without having to make significant changes to their drum brake offerings,” said Chad Mitts, general manager, brakes, Meritor. “We have the technology and products to support our customers. Our preparation has included over 7.5 million miles of road testing and nearly 500 dynamometer tests to ensure that Meritor optimized drum brakes comply with stopping requirements.”

Meritor said it plans to make the transition seamless for customers.

“When choosing Meritor’s Q Plus brakes, truck operators will benefit from an established service infrastructure and proven operational efficiency,” Mitts said.

Meritor said its Q Plus brakes narrow the performance gap between disc brakes and drums.

“In order to meet the new government regulation with drum brakes, Meritor designed more powerful front brakes and highly effective rear axle brakes to deliver the new stopping distances,” said Joe Kay, chief engineer, brakes, Meritor. “Meritor has taken the opportunity to shorten the stopping distance gap between drum and disc brakes while maintaining or improving brake life. We were also able to balance the torque load between tractor and trailer brakes. It was important for us to focus on everyday driving characteristics as well as the more stringent emergency stop performance requirements.”